Proposal for Ocean Engineering Studies for San Nicolas Island Marine Access Improvements.

At the present time San Nicolas Island is accessed by sea using a YFU barge which lands at an area know as NAVFAC Beach. The landing of the barge over suspected underwater rock outcrops poses a potential threat to barge safety. Therefore, it is appropriate to survey the NAVFAC Beach are to qualify and quantify the degree and extent of submarine hazards. The general purpose of the work proposed is to develop ocean environmental design criteria for the feasible and reasonable options which may be considered for a future formal waterfront at SNI. The lack of any natural harbor site on SNI presents a major obstacle to the development of a waterfront facility. A pier will either be subject to the full brunt of the ocean waves, or it must be protected by a large and costly breakwater. Wave heights of 69 feet have been recorded near SNI. This fact must be reflected in the design of any in-water facility exposed to the ocean at SNI. Keywords Piers Causeways.