2. The Width and Depth of the Channel.
The several new Channels projected on the maps show the position and extent of the obstructions necessary to be removed in each of them, so that they may be navigable for vessels drawing ten feet.
In laying down these Channels, care was taken to avoid obstructions and sudden bends, as much as circumstances and the prevailing currents would admit; each of the Channels will, therefore, if sufficiently improved, become a navigable Channel, but only one of the number will hereafter be recommended for improvement. A width of Channel of 200 feet would be quite ample for vessels drawing ten feet, and there may be instances in which a combination of favorable circumstances, such as straightness of Channel, inconsiderable extent of the obstructions between which it runs, facility of entrance and ease in keeping the Channel, would admit of a width of less than two hundred feet, and should it be deemed necessary the undersigned would be prepared to point out the localities where such deviations may be admissible; it may be proper, however, to remark in this place, that the estimates given in are based on the assumed necessity of a 200 feet Channel throughout. With regard to the depth of Channel, they do not see any occasion to comment upon the data given by the Honorable Commissioners of Public Works, and their experience would lead them fully to subscribe to the conditions contained in their instructions, that it ought not to be less than twelve feet in any place, and not less than thirteen feet where there is a heavy swell. The undersigned have therefore, in stating the depths which, in their opinion, will be required in each locality, found no occasion to go beyond the limits assigned by their instructions. The depths which will be recommended in the following have also been marked on the maps accompanying this Report, and the estimates of cost have been calculated accordingly.
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