How to cross flooded creeks

We have a couple of creeks that run through our property and one of these creeks has been dammed by beavers and have caused flooding and high water making crossing impossible without getting wet. This creek cuts off 2 of our premium double ladder tree stands and a nice elevated blind. 0ver the last 15years we have tried a variety of different ways to cross this creek - felled a couple of trees across it (lasted a couple of years but makes for a dicey crossing at night when it is wet), extension ladder & planks, and my fav the good ole rope swing (until it lets go or you do not get enough momentum - LOL).

We have a couple of older guys hunting with us (60's) and are not as nimble and a tumble off one of these contraptions could be more serious than a wet sit that evening.

What have you done to cross creeks? I saw a cool bridge that utilized two TV antennas and 2x6 planking on a poured concrete base - but I am curious if this will hold a 225lb guy (plus gear) over a 12-15' span.

https://i.imgur.com/sxg3cmV.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/47D0zdJ.jpg

That looks like it would hold a lot more than 250lbs.. Looks like a good choice
Good luck and don't get wet :)

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Originally Posted by fratri

That looks like it would hold a lot more than 250lbs.. Looks like a good choice
Good luck and don't get wet :)

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I agree !! I can’t imagine swinging across that on a rope !! It would make for some good laughs I bet !! Lol

Mobile home trailer frame if I remember it’s 38’. Planks top. I need another looking for cheap 45’ flat deck semi trailer

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We had the same problem, we took care of the beavers, problem solved

Old canoe stored at the crossing might be a simple solution.

Was going to say -- an old flatbed or trailer frame would work well.

Otherwise, a few heavy Cedar timbers and some deck boards will work. Earth anchoring the timbers to the ground will ensure longevity even during a flood event.

-N.

That would hold an ATV ,if i am to say.
Bigger concern would be the 2 ends ,where they will be sitting at ,on the creek banks.
If solid banks and can not be softened up by high water level-you are good to go.

Back home-the construction scaffoldings had spans of 10 feet,and one could work on , with the weight of some construction material(bricks and mortar)and his own weight ,on 3 -4 pieces of 4 meter long 2x 8(2x10)all day long.

Roof trusses in malls or industrial buildings are similar concept ,as your bridge,and they support major roof/snow weight ,on large spans.....

I’m assuming you own the land.
Visit a scrap yard and talk to the owner. You will be surprised what he can find for you.
I picked up a cement block delivery truck 24’ deck for $1300.
Place a couple 12”x12” sill logs at both end to sit end of deck on and your good for a long time. You can rent a mini excavator for prep work and placing deck.

Our local hardware store sells large pieces of styrofoam - buoyancy billets that measure 10”X20”X8’. One cubic feet will support 55 pounds. Consider building a floating bridge.

tannerite

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kviYCJ3drFs

Get rid of the beavers

Get rid of beaver dam using tannerite

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUAWl2gUQZE


But seriously you want to rid yourself of beavers for many years do this

Go down put a hole in the dam and then dam the hole with plywood, In jan when everything is frozen pull out the plywood and your beavers will now not be able to use it as a water way and either move on or perish

I would LOVE to get rid of the beavers but the dams are downstream from the farm. Just easier to build a bridge rather than tear beaver dams down every 2-3 years

PM, me
I will tell you a fail safe proven method

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Originally Posted by Sam Menard

Our local hardware store sells large pieces of styrofoam - buoyancy billets that measure 10”X20”X8’. One cubic feet will support 55 pounds. Consider building a floating bridge.

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I was thinking the same thing, something as easy a floating boat dock with a few plastic 45 gallon drums inside a frame. May not support an ATV, but will allow a hunter to cross and keep dry.

I have seen a farm gate used to cross creeks before. Not sure if it would work for this area. Should be strong enough to drive over.

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12 foot boat and a rope pull tied from one bank to the other. Attach a sliding piece of pvc pipe over the rope with an eyebolt backed with a washer through it. Keep a snap hook tied to the bow line of the boat. Snap in before crossing and you’ll never lose the rope going across. Make sure to tie off each side. You should be able to get a rusty 12 footer for $500 at this time of year. This way you can stash the boat at year end and Trespassers can’t get to your stands to help themselves.