BARCELONA HARBOR COASTAL ASSESSMENT
BARCELONA, NYWATERFRONT | HABITAT ENHANCEMENT
Status: In-Progress
Barcelona Harbor, situated in Westfield, Chautauqua County, N.Y., rests along the southern shores of Lake Erie, approximately 17 miles southwest of Dunkirk, N.Y., and 29 miles northeast of Erie, Pa. It serves as a vital hub for both commercial and recreational activities, offering shelter within the 56-mile stretch between Dunkirk and Erie, catering to the hamlet of Barcelona and the surrounding town of Westfield.
Despite periodic federal dredging, including the most recent effort in spring 2023, Barcelona Harbor has encountered a notable increase in sediment buildup within its confines over the past five years. This accumulation impedes both commercial and recreational usage, risking the harbor's designation as a refuge. The sedimentation challenges have amplified over the last decade, primarily attributed to deteriorating infrastructure such as the western breakwater, potentially compounded by rising lake levels. The projected rise in lake levels and reduced ice coverage in Lake Erie may further exacerbate sedimentation issues. Given the harbor's critical role in providing a safe haven for small boats between Dunkirk and Erie and supporting nearby marinas, addressing sediment buildup and preserving navigational channels is crucial.
Proposed design solutions may include targeted dredging and the beneficial utilization of sediment, coupled with the exploration of offshore structures. These interventions aim to mitigate Barcelona's sedimentation challenges while aligning with ongoing initiatives to enhance recreational access and bolster fish habitat in the area.
Client: Chautauqua County Soil and Water
Collaborators: Anchor QEA
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