Fords may provide an acceptable short-term solution or long-term infrequent-use option for shallow waterways with low banks and a hard bottom. The main environmental concerns are water quality and all weather access but benefits include low impact on the natural stream channel. Table 7 show the estimated costs of installing an acceptable ford. Note that the cost of stone can vary widely, depending on the firmness of the streambed.

Planning, one worker for 2 hours	$ 25
Dozer transport	$ 75
2 hours dozer time @ 75/hr	$ 150
Stone for approaches 20 tons @ $6.50/ton	$ 130
Water diversion on either side	$ 75
Total	$ 455
TABLE 7. Estimated costs of constructing a 40 foot wide ford crossing.