Published: 2001
Total Pages: 111
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A 1:75-scale (undistorted) three-dimensional coastal hydraulic model was used to investigate the design of proposed improvements for enhancement of wave-induced circulation at Kaunakakai Harbor, Molokai, HI. The model reproduced approximately 2,010 m (6,600 ft) of the Molokai shoreline, the existing causeway and harbors, and sufficient offshore bathymetry in the Pacific Ocean to permit generation of the required experimental waves. A 21.3-rn-long (70-ft-long) spectral wave generator, an automated data acquisition system, and a crushed coal tracer material were utilized in model operation. It was concluded from study results that: a) For existing conditions, wave height experiments indicated that wave heights of 0.46 m (1.5 ft) in the small-boat harbor and 0.27 m (0.9 ft) in the deep-draft port will occur for storm waves generated in deep water, and b) For existing conditions, wave height experiments and visual observations indicated that wave conditions east of the causeway were greater for locally-generated wind waves (due to wave growth over the shallow reef) than for the larger waves generated in deep water since they broke and expended their energy on the edge of the reef.
