Some key stream crossing considerations include stream characteristics, location, purpose, traffic, longevity, cost and design, and construction. Typical expenses and the type of equipment and material required for various crossing options are presented in Table 1:

Type of crossing	Typical costs	Installation consideration	Access limitations	Environmental issues	Appropriate stream
Fords	$100 - $1,000	machine, stone	limited by high water	turbidity	low banks, hard bottom, shallow stream
Culverts	$200 - $1,500	culvert, equipment, shallow bedrock	none	storm flow, fish passage	small watershed, confined channel
Portable (temporary) skidder bridges	$2,000 - $4,000	initial purchase, installation, transport	weight limit of bridge	drainage from approaches, installation	confined stream with higher banks, span less than 25 ft
Simple (permanent) wooden bridges	$5,000 - $40,000	design, labor, machine, materials	weight limit of bridge	possible permit requirement, turbidity during construction	small to large
Low-water crossings	$10,000 - $50,000	design, location, concrete, pipe, labor, machine	none, except during flood stage	streambed disturbance during construction, fish passage	small to large, shallow stream preferable
Table 1: Decision table for stream crossing options.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In general, the specific location along the stream will be based upon whether or not a ford or elevated structure is desired. The type of stream crossing desired depends on factors such as the overall purpose of the crossing, the amount and weight of traffic, how long the crossing will be used, cost considerations, and design and construction options. For temporary bridges, fixed wooden structures or portable steel or wooden structures are logical choices. For permanent crossings treated wooden bridges or even concrete or steel should be considered. If a bridge is to be designed for public access or unusual conditions then we recommend engaging a professional engineer for the design.