Southwinds Marina installs new breakwater in time for busy season

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Courtney Kippenberger
  • 47 FTW Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Taking extra precautions to ensure the water at Laughlin's Southwinds Marina is safe and ready for the busy season that lies ahead, Laughlin Air Force Base installed a state-of-the-art breakwater system Jan. 18.

The system, which costs $250,000, is designed to protect the land surrounding the marina from natural debris and waves created by storms.

Tested throughout the country and along our nation's coastlines, the new system will replace a makeshift breakwater near Southwinds Marina that was created more than 20 years ago out of old, Styrofoam-filled tires, said Mike Easterly, 47th Force Support Squadron Community Services Flight chief.

"Our new system will last for the next 40 to 50 years and is environmentally safe," said Mr. Easterly.

In addition to the environmental concerns posed by the old breakwater, safety issues were becoming a constant challenge.

"Over the years, the worn-down tires have begun breaking off and floating over the lake, posing a huge safety hazard. This new system allows us to protect our Airmen and their families. In addition, it provides protection for our boats and a proposed new dock that we have planned for the near future," said Alexander Kovras, 47th FSS deputy commander.

It took four tractor trailers and a 220,000 pound crane to deliver the 283,500 pound system to the marina Jan. 9.

"The system arrived in three separate sections that had to be lowered into the water near the dam by a crane. Once the sections were in the water, a barge and winch were used to maneuver the pieces over to the Southwinds Marina."

"The three pieces were then joined together with 15 anchors that were dropped to the bottom of the lake. The system allows us to raise and lower the breakwater as the water level fluctuates," said Mr. Easterly.

The new breakwater, which took ten days to assemble, is anchored approximately 20 feet from the west bank of the marina, and spans 180 feet.

"This is just one of the many things we're doing to ensure the marina is ready for the rush that the warm weather brings. Laughlin members can come down to the marina, rent a boat or trailer, or just relax and know that they are in good hands," said Mr. Kovras.