‘‘Trash Gate'' Lake Cumberland Debris Management System

The Daniel Boone Natural Forest System including Lake Cumberland, Cumberland River, and Cumberland Falls in the Sate of Kentucky is a major wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation area. This natural resource and scenic area was being impacted by the accumulation of unsightly trash and debris. The trash and debris posed an adverse environmental and public safety impact affecting navigation, fishing, swimming and other enjoyment of the river system. Innovative civil engineering design and construction was implemented to capture the trash and debris upstream in the Cumberland River and prevent its entrance into Lake Cumberland. The rack system was designed using 3-D Computer Modeling to optimize the site layout. Design considerations also addressed operational requirements, public concerns, environmental impacts, navigation and boating concerns, and esthetic issues. Special considerations taken during construction addressed environmental concerns associated with preservation of wetland habitat, endangered species, and river water quality. Impact on local residences and public facilities also were addressed.