Wave conditions 



Waves and longshore currents are the driving forces behind beach 

 planform development. Some detailed research monitoring programs may 

 want to examine the cause-and-effect relationships between waves, sediment 

 transport, and a project's functional performance. Data can be obtained at the 

 site using a wave gauge system designed to meet the specific objectives of the 

 study. Generally, wave direction is important when examining functional 

 performance of a project. 



Wave data are sometimes collected to evaluate the structural performance 

 of a rubble-mound breakwater. Larger wave heights associated with storms 

 are of primary interest; wave direction is usually of secondary importance. 



112 



Chapter 5 Other Design Issues 



