OPERATION WATERSHED – RECOVERY

2012 Flood Season Preparedness and 

Emergency Response Summary

12 April 2012
i

2012 Flood Season Preparedness and

Emergency Response Summary

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. SECTION I - INTENT & PURPOSE

2. SECTION II - 2011 FLOOD

2.1 GENERAL OVERVIEW 

A. Introduction

B. Meteorological Events

2.2 2011 EMERGENCY RESPONSE

A. Overview

B. Key Decisions & Emergency Actions/ Repairs Required During Flood

3. SECTION III - DAMAGES & IMMEDIATE NEEDS 

3.1 GENERAL APPROACH/ CRITERIA/ FACTORS CONSIDERED / DATA 

USED

3.2 PHYSICAL COMPONENTS/FEATURES 

A. MRL Items

B. CI Items

C. Dredging Items

D. Structures

E. PL 84-99 

4. SECTION IV - RECOVERY NEEDS (Critical projects)

4.1 GENERAL APPROACH/ CRITERIA/ FACTORS CONSIDERED / DATA 

USED

4.2 PHYSICAL COMPONENTS/FEATURES

A. Levee Items

B. CI Items

C. Dredging Items

D. Structures

5. SECTION V - RECOVERY NEEDS (Non-Critical projects)

5.1 GENERAL APPROACH/ CRITERIA/ FACTORS CONSIDERED / DATA 

USED

5.2 PHYSICAL COMPONENTS/FEATURES

A. Levee Items

B. CI Items
ii

C. Dredging Items

D. Structures

E. Recreation Items

F. Drainage Items

6. SECTION VI - RESERVOIRS AND FLOODWAYS 

6.1 GENERAL OVERVIEW 

A. Reservoirs

B. Floodways

7. SECTION VII – NWS SPRING 2012 WEATHER FORECAST

7.1 General Overview

7.2 Heavy Rainfall and Flooding

7.3 Above Normal Flood Risk Areas

7.4 Normal Flood Risk Areas

7.5 Below Normal Flood Risk Areas

8. SECTION VIII - RISK COMMUNICATION PLAN AND PRODUCTS

8.1 GENERAL OVERVIEW 

8.2 COMMUNICATION TOOLS AND PRODUCTS 

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A - Site ID list (Arranged by district)

Appendix B - Site ID list (Arranged by state)

Appendix C - FRAGO

Appendix D - OPORD

Appendix E - Reservoirs and Floodways
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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SECTION I - INTENT & PURPOSE

This document has been developed to capture in general terms, the efforts the Mississippi 

Valley Division (MVD) U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has undertaken to manage and 

mitigate risks associated with the great flood of 2011 and in preparation for the next flood event. 

It is intended to be used a tool and in conjunction with other products produced under Operation 

Watershed Recovery (OW-R) in an effort to communicate both internally and externally the risks 

which remain to the public in the wake of one on the largest flood events on record.

Many tables have been provided within this document in an effort to summarize and index 

information that the reader can easily reference and utilize in conjunction with other tools such 

as CorpsMap. Each damaged site included in this document has undergone extensive 

investigation and validation by experienced USACE personnel. The totality of damages 

incurred during the great flood of 2011 includes nearly 2 billion dollars worth of damages to 

critical infrastructure necessary to the flood risk management system benefiting both the 

nation's populous and the economy. Further site specific detailed information is publicly 

available via the Regional Flood Risk Management and CorpsMap websites 

(http://www.mvd.usace.army.mil/) and other products such as Information Papers, Risk 

Management Papers, and Construction Fact Sheets. 

SECTION II - 2011 FLOOD

2.1 GENERAL OVERVIEW

A. Introduction. 

The Mississippi River provides drainage for 41% (1.2 Million square miles) of the continental 

US, including all or part of 31 states. Its drainage area covers over 1.8 million square miles and 

is the third largest watershed in the world with the Amazon and the Congo as first and second 

respectively. The Mississippi river begins its journey southward in Northern Minnesota and 

meanders its way down the valley combining with flows from many tributaries including the

Missouri, Ohio, and the Arkansas Rivers. Along the way millions of gallons of water passes by 

a comprehensive flood risk reduction system designed to pass the “project design flood”, or the 

largest flood reasonably expected to occur. Utilizing the combined use of levees, floodways, 

channel improvements, backwater areas and reservoirs, this massive volume of water finally 

finds its way to the Gulf of Mexico some 2430 miles later. 

Excessive precipitation throughout the Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, and Souris River valleys 

combined with a higher than normal melting snowpack caused historic flooding within the 

division during the spring of 2011. The 2011 flood event was one of the largest ever recorded 

along the Mississippi River and affected multiple tributaries and watersheds within MVD. The 

Souris River crested six times in May through early June 2011 before receiving inflows in midJune from a Canadian rainstorm that were 3 times greater than any that already had been 

passed. River stages and flow rates at many gage stations along the lower Ohio and 

Mississippi rivers were record setting events which tested the resiliency of the system. 
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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B. Meteorological Events. Leading up to the 2011 spring flood event the National Weather 

Service predicted an active flood season for portions of the upper Mississippi valley districts 

based the 2010-2011 snowpack which contained a water content ranked among the highest in 

the last 60 years.

In addition to the heavy snowpack, the Souris River basin received substantial rainfall in the 

spring and summer. Storms frequented the region approximately every four to seven days, with 

each delivering around 2-4 in of rain over a large area.

Figure (1)

Figure (2) 
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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National Weather Service reports show that during a two week period in late April to Early May 

2011 an excessive amount of rain fell over portions of the Ohio River Valley and across northern 

Arkansas and southern Missouri. This meteorological event deposited more than 600 – 1,000% 

of normal rainfall across parts of the Ohio, White and mid-Mississippi River valleys, with rain 

amounts up to 20 inches at some locations. 

Figure (3) 

The heaviest rain event unfolded April 23 through 28. In the course of these 6 days, 9 to 10 

inches of rain fell in parts of southern Illinois, southern Indiana, and northern Kentucky. Parts of 

southeastern Missouri and northern Arkansas received more than 12 inches of rain. Several 

states recorded their wettest April in history, including Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, West 

Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Missouri, Arkansas, and Tennessee also recorded a top five 

wettest April. 
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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2.2 2011 EMERGENCY RESPONSE

A. Overview. The 2011 Mississippi River Flood was among the largest ever recorded along the 

lower part of the waterway and though the system performed as designed, it experienced 

tremendous and prolonged pressure from this historic event. It is the Flood of Record for many 

gauges between Cape Girardeau, MO and the Gulf of Mexico. The 2011 flood fight is the first 

time the total watershed system was required to be operated in a synchronized manner to 

manage the highest level of water it has ever seen, in some areas this event was near the 

Project Design Flood. The flood waters exacerbated known weakness and created new 

weaknesses in the system requiring emergency response by the local levee boards coupled 

with technical assistance and other resources from the Corps.

Corps of Engineers emergency activities during the flood encompassed every phase of flood 

fighting, ranging from cooperation with local levee boards and drainage districts to the operation 

of floodways and backwater features. Emergency flood fight measures that were required to 

pass the event included ringing sand boils, constructing water berms, blocking culverts/ditches 

to impound surface waters, constructing erosion control measures, and raising the level of 

protection in some areas on the mainstem Mississippi River Levee. Reservoirs and Floodways 

are key components of the flood risk management system. 78 Corps reservoirs and 40 

Tennessee Valley Authority reservoirs in the Ohio basin provided additional flood protection and 

for the first time in the MR&T project’s history three floodways; Bird's Point, Morganza, and 

Bonne Carre were placed in simultaneous operation to help relieve the enormous stress on the 

much-improved levee system.

Districts aggressively pursued coordination internally and with outside agencies during this 

event in an effort to synchronize efforts and to share information. Coordination was 

accomplished in many different ways, including establishing direct liaison with certain agencies, 

establishing internal and external websites, using social media to inform the public, and 

participating in recurring meetings and conference calls. 
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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B. Key Decisions & Emergency Actions Performed/Repairs needed during the Flood. 

St. Paul District Table(1) 

MVP

Date Event District

28-Jan-11 Declaration of Emergency signed by COL Price MVP

26-Feb-11 Dam operations (Souris) turned over to USACE from USFWS due to anticipated rise in inflow 

and outflow at Lake Darling MVP

16-Mar-11 St. Paul officials warn city of near record levels possible due to snowpack MVP

7-Apr-11 President signs federal emergency declaration for ND; Canadian reservoirs are raising 

outflows in response to rainfall, will raise inflow and outflows at Lake Darling MVP

9-Apr-11 River crests at Fargo MVP

25-May-11 Levels continue to rise on the Souris in Minot, levee construction begins, and the city is 

encouraged to prepare an evacuation plan MVP

1-Jun-11 City of Minot orders evacuation of vulnerable areas MVP

6-Jun-11

River levels fall in Minot and contingency levees built in past few days are starting to be 

removed by the city. Lake Darling at 1599.97 feet. All evacuated areas now reopened but 

residents warned to be prepared to leave again.

MVP

20-Jun-11

Up to 5.5 inches of rain falls in Canada in the Souris basin. Discharges increased from Lake 

Darling to make room for water from Canada. Work on secondary levees to protect critical 

infrastructure in Minot.

MVP

22-Jun-11 Mandatory evacuation in Minot. Levees begin to be overtopped MVP

25-Jun-11 Burlington evacuated MVP

i. Lake Darling. During the 2011 event, Lake Darling dam operations (Souris River) 

were turned over to USACE from USFWS due to anticipated rise in inflow and outflow at Lake 

Darling. On 25 June, the peak inflow to Lake Darling was 29,000 cfs with a peak outflow 

of 25,000 cfs on the same day. Over a thirty day period, the Lake Darling pool peaked 

at the top of the flood control limit three times with each time corresponding to a 

different event.

ii. Souris River. The Souris River, after 6 crests in May through early June, 

received inflows in mid-June from a Canadian rainstorm that were 3 times greater than 

any that already had been passed. The channel and levee projects in Minot, ND were 

overtopped and significant scour occurred at Velva, ND. Levee and pump station 

repairs in Minot and scour repair in Velva are underway. Floods between the levees 

are expected to be successfully contained for the for the 1% chance of exceedance. If 

the levees are over topped by a similar event to 2011, approximately 10,000 people and 

4,000 structures would be impacted.
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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St. Paul District (MVP) 2011 Flood Fight Funding Details

 - Souris River Spring Floods: $ 3,814,826

 - Souris River Recovery: $ 5,976,000

MVP Total Flood Fight: $ 9,790,826

Figure (4) Levee breach on Souris River at Minot, ND Figure (5) Levee construction at Minot, ND

 
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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Rock Island District Table(2) 

MVR

Date Event District

27-Jan-11

Release of the first NWS Probabilistic Flood Outlook Summery describing greater than 

normal flood potential from well above normal snow pack levels and higher than normal 

soil moisture conditions.

MVR

4-Mar-11 Request for Advanced Measures to provided contingency planning support. MVR

17-Mar-11 Conducted Flood Fight Training with Public Works Officials from the Quad Cities Flood Area MVR

17-Mar-11

Provided inundation mapping to officials of National Cemetery Administration 

representatives on the Rock Island Arsenal for their use in their flood fighting efforts to 

protect grave sights from inundation.

MVR

22-Mar-11

Declaration of Emergency signed by EM Rodney L. Delp for COL Shawn P. McGinley. The EOC 

transitioned from Advanced Measures Contingency Planning to Activation and Response 

Operations. EOC is activated to Level 2: Watch Operations.

MVR

22-Mar-11 MVR conducts flood fight refresher training for approximately 60 engineers. MVR

24-Mar-11 NWS releases reduced Probabilistic Flood Outlook. MVR

25-Mar-11 Conducted Flood Fight Training with Public Works Officials from the Clinton Flood Area MVR

31-Mar-11 Inundation mapping is completed and Flood Area Engineers begin to distribute them to 

State and local governments MVR

4-Apr-11 Two MVR employees sent to Fargo, ND to support flood fight operations along the Red River 

of the North. MVR

19-Apr-11 Crest enters the Rock Island District AOR MVR

22-Apr-11 Crest moves past Rock Island District - HQ Building MVR

25-Apr-11 Crest moves out of the Rock Island District AOR MVR

26-Apr-11 Activation of the MVR Regional Flood Fight Center to provide emergency materiel support 

to southern MVD Districts MVR

27-Apr-11 MVR begins providing personnel support to southern Districts MVR

23-May-11 The MVR-EOC returns to normal operations MVR

14-Jun-11 Mississippi Fox Drainage and Levee District located on the Des Moines and Mississippi River 

overtopped-breached due to flash flooding after a localized rain event. MVR

15-Jun-11 Declaration of Emergency signed by EM Rodney L. Delp for COL Shawn P. McGinley. MVR

20-Jun-11 The MVR-EOC returns to normal operations. MVR

Rock Island District (MVR) 2011 Flood Fight Funding Details

3125 FCCE Emergency Operations: $10,797,000

MVR Total Flood Fight: $10,797,000
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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St. Louis District Table(3)

MVS

Date Event District

21-Apr-11 Emergency Declared and EOC activated MVS

26-Apr-11 Congressman Carnahan toured Festus/Crystal City Levee and Cape area MVS

26-Apr-11 Senator Durbin brief via teleconference with DE’s MVS

27-Apr-11 Congresswoman Emerson brief via teleconference with DE MVS

28-Apr-11 Vandalia Levee overtopped MVS

29-Apr-11 Len Small Levee on the Mississippi River overtopped MVS

1-May-11 MG Walsh, CODEL Blunt/Emerson visit to SE Missouri MVS

2-May-11 Wappapello Lake emergency spillway overtopped MVS

3-May-11 MG Walsh visits Lake Wappapello MVS

4-May-11 Congresswoman Emerson visit to Wappapello and Cape Girardeau area MVS

4-May-11 Kaskaskia Lock on the Kaskaskia River re-opened MVS

24-May-11 EOC closed MVS

 

 i. Festus-Crystal City Levee. Flood fight efforts for this preexisting slide site including 

monitoring during the event to insure that the situation did not worsen over time.

ii. Len Small, Vandalia. During the 2011 event, two levees (Vandalia, Len Small) 

overtopped and 28,500 protected acres were inundated. A total of 45 personnel provided 

support during this event, under FCCE funding. A total of 1,540,000 sandbags, 2 pumps, and 

131 rolls of visqueen were issued.

iii. Wappapello. Record rainfalls from the 22nd of April to the 3rd of May caused 

Wappapello Lake to reach a record lake level and the largest releases which 

overtopped the emergency spillway. The activation of the emergency spillway at 

Wappapello resulted in infrastructure damage and had significant impacts to the Project 

and local community.

iv. Kaskaskia Lock. One of the five locks in the District was closed for a period of 

time during this flood event. Kaskaskia Lock was closed while Lock 24, Lock 25, Melvin 

Price Locks and Dam, and Lock 27 remained open. Daily coordination meetings with 

the U.S. Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, Railroad (bridges), River Industry 

Action Committee and Mariners were held.

 St. Louis District (MVS) 2011 Flood Fight Funding Details

 FC&CE Total: $ 1,540,000

 - 20 April 11: $ 225,000

 - 21 April 11: $ 780,000

 - 27 April 11: $ 465,000

 - 28 April 11: $ 70,000

MVS Total Flood Fight: $ 1,540,000
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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Memphis District Table(4)

MVM

Date Event District

20-Apr-11 Lt. Col. Daniel Hamilton, Memphis District Deputy Commander, on behalf of Memphis 

District Commander Col. Reichling, signed a Declaration of Emergency. MVM

20-Apr-11 The Memphis District (MVM) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated at Level I MVM

24-Apr-11 The Memphis District (MVM) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated at Level II MVM

25-Apr-11 Memphis District Commander, Col. Vernie Reichling, orders crews to load pump barges with 

the necessary explosives to activate the Bird's Point floodway. MVM

26-Apr-11 Phase II 24-hour patrols began MVM

28-Apr-11 Survey and hired labor crews locate, uncover and prepared access wells on the frontline 

levee in anticipation of the Bird's Point floodway. MVM

1-May-11 Gen. Walsh approves Col. Reichling’s recommendation to move the barges into place and 

begin setting inplace explosives needed to operate the Bird's Point floodway. MVM

2-May-11 Activation of the Bird's Point floodway. MVM

11-May-11 Phase II 24-hour patrols end MVM

29-May-11 The Memphis District (MVM) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) enters Level I MVM

5-Jun-11 The Memphis District (MVM) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) returns to normal 

operations

MVM

 

 i. City of Cairo, IL. Major seepage in the form of three high energy sand boils with sand 

cones from 8 to 15 feet in height occurred in this area. Major flood fighting efforts were required 

starting at approximate river stage reading of 52.3 feet (10 year event) and higher. 

 ii. Cairo, IL Parcel 5. During the 2011 event, major seepage was observed in the form 

of multiple large, high energy sand boils in the sump area of the Goose Pond Pumping Station. 

Flood fighting methods utilized to control the seepage in this area included increasing the depth 

of water within the sump area of the Goose Pond pumping station and flooding adjacent lands.

 iii. Above Cairo, IL Parcel 2A – Relief Wells. Hundreds of small to medium sand boils 

were observed During the 2011. Most of these boils had throat diameters of greater than 4 

inches and cone diameters of 3 to 6 feet or greater. During the 2011 event, significant flood 

fighting was required starting at an approximate river stage of 52.3 feet (10 year event) and 

higher. 

 

 iv. Island 8 (mile 1/0+00 to mile 15/0+00). Heavy seepage and multiple large, high 

energy sand boils approximately 100 feet from levee toe and three large sand boils at the levee 

toe were flood fought in this area during the 2011 event.

 v. Birds Point New Madrid Floodway – Make Safe and Stable. Following the 

operation of the Floodway in May 2011, the Commander, MVD, issued a memorandum directing 

the Memphis District to implement make safe and stability operations based on a target 
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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elevation (stage) of 51 feet on the Cairo gage to provide a stable base for flood fight operations 

and subsequent reset operations by November 30, 2011. Further analysis and effort in late fall 

2012 allowed protection to an elevation of 55ft on the Cairo gage to be achieved by 15 Dec 

2011 through the use of HESCO bastions on the upper crevasse

Memphis District (MVM) 2011 Flood Fight Funding Details

MR&T Total: $7,591,000

 - MRL Maintenance: $6,718,000

 - St. Francis Maintenance: $128,000

 - White River Maintenance: $745,000

FC&CE Total: $8,100,000

 - 21M MRL – M: $2,355,000

 - 21M St. Francis – M: $4,670,000

 - 24M St. Francis – M: $1,075,000

MVM Total Flood Fight: $15,691,000

Figure (6) Sandboil at Cairo Figure (7) Flood fight efforts at Cairo
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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Vicksburg District Table(5)

MVK

Date Event District

25-Apr-11 Declaration of Emergency signed by COL Jeffrey Eckstein MVK

25-Apr-11 The Vicksburg District (MVK) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated at Level I MVK

27-Apr-11 MVK requests permission to deviate from the water control plan at Muddy Bayou in order to 

raise the water level at Eagle Lake MVK

30-Apr-11 The Vicksburg District (MVK) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated at Level II MVK

2-May-11 Phase I levee patrols begin in all sectors MVK

4-May-11 Maj. Gen. Walsh approves COL Eckstein’s recommendation protect the backside of the 

Yazoo Backwater Levee against erosion. MVK

6-May-11 Stabilization work at Buck Chute complete MVK

7-May-11 Phase II levee patrols begin in all sectors MVK

12-May-11 Overtopping of abandoned levee occurs near Wilson Point in Louisiana MVK

13-May-11 Erosion protection for the backside of the Yazoo Backwater Levee complete MVK

16-May-11 Natchez requests assistance with erosion protection at Silver Street MVK

19-May-11 Erosion protection at Silver Street in Natchez complete MVK

12-Jun-11 Phase II 24-hour patrols end MVK

20-Jun-11 The Vicksburg District (MVK) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) returns to normal 

operations

MVK

 i. Buck Chute. MVK addressed this hot spot using two methods: constructing a 

stabilization berm in the area where boils had been identified, and raising the water level at 

Eagle Lake to lower the hydraulic head. Vicksburg District requested a deviation from the 

established water control plan on 27 April in order to raise the water level at Eagle Lake to 90.0 

feet. The intent was to offset the pressure caused by high riverside water levels

 ii. Yazoo Backwater Levee. Several projects were required at the Yazoo Backwater 

Levee during this event including work to several deficient areas which were identified along the 

Levee, including cattle guards and portions of the levee below design grade as well as 

protection measures implemented for the backside of the Levee against erosion.

 

 iii. Vidalia Area Levee Raises. Several locations along the Mississippi River Levee 

near Vidalia, LA were identified as deficient and in need of raising. Deficient areas required 
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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potato ridge, HESCO, or both in order to raise the levee to the required grade and provide a 

minimum freeboard based on the predicted water level. 

 vi. Silver Street Erosion Protection, Natchez, MS. Significant erosion of the river 

bank occurred near Silver Street in Natchez, MS and by 15 May the erosion had begun to 

threaten temporary protection measures at Natchez. On 16 May emergency repairs at the site 

were initiated, consisting of emplacement of R200 stone on top of the existing fabric and sand 

bags along a 350 foot section of eroded river bank. 

 vii. Albemarle Levee Slide. Three significant sand boil and two slides were discovered 

in the Mayersville sector near the Mississippi River Levee, approximately 8 miles north of Eagle 

Lake. Repair included a stone dike was emplaced around the slide area which was backfilled 

with sand. On 21 May movement of the slide necessitated increasing the quantities of stone 

and sand required. 

 

 

Vicksburg District (MVK) 2011 Flood Fight Funding Details:

3112 MR&T Appropriation Direct: $10,172,729

3125 FCCE Reprogrammed from MR&T: $3,470,422

3125 FCCE Emergency Operations: $1,350,000

MVK Total Flood Fight: $14,993,151

Figure (8) Albemarle slide Figure (9) Stone dike emplacement at Albemarle
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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New Orleans District Table(6)

MVN

Date Event District

14-Mar-11 Declaration of Emergency signed by COL Edward R. Fleming. EOC activated at Level I MVN

15-Mar-11 EOC activated at Level II Lower portions of Mississippi River were activated. MVN

24-Mar-11 The lower Atchafalaya Basin sectors were activated for Phase 1 MVN

30-Mar-11 The upper sectors within the Mississippi River were activated for Phase 1 MVN

30-Apr-11 MVN places 122,000 sandbags to form a berm at Duncan Point, MVN

5-May-11 Phase II flood fight was activated for sectors within the entire Mississippi River MVN

8-May-11 Phase II flood fight was activated for lower sectors of the Atchafalaya MVN

6-May-11 Stabilization work at Buck Chute complete MVN

9-May-11 The Bonnet Carre Structure was opened MVN

12-May-11 Old River Lock closed to navigation MVN

14-May-11 MRC made decision to open the Morganza Floodway on 14 May MVN

31-May-11 Old River Lock reopened for navigation MVN

20-Jun-11

The Bonnet Carre Structure was closed

MVN

7-Jul-11 Morganza Floodway closed MVN

22-Jul-11 MVN EOC returns to normal operations MVN

 i. Baton Rouge Front. The flood-side slope paving (which includes a major railroad 

atop of crown) experienced large cracking due to slope slough. MVN and East Baton Rouge 

Parish restricted the Canadian National railroad to 15mph and prohibited the stockpiling of cars 

and parking of trains across the Baton Rouge Front area. Flood side stability was monitored 

24/7 to assess potential loss of levee slope. As the water started to cover the tracks, trains 

were completely restricted from use of the tracks. 

 ii. Duncan Point. The Duncan Point seepage area contains a sand boil which is at the 

landside toe of the levee. During the 2011 event excess head at the levee toe was greater than 

10 feet. The lower 1/3 of the landside slope required intensive flood fight efforts including 

10,000 sand bags placed by MVN and the Pontchartrain Levee District. The adjacent highway 

experienced spongy conditions requiring closure by the Louisiana Department of Transportation 

and Development. A massive aquifer in excess of 300 feet in depth exists beneath the levee 

overlain by a thin blanket, this blanket has been ruptured and the situation continues to 

deteriorate with successive high waters. 
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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 iii. Chalmette. Approximately 800lf of HESCO bastions and an additional 4ft of fill 

material was added between the HESCO barriers and the toe of the levee slope in order to 

prevent seepage from occurring at this site.

iv. Bayou Chene. Assisted the locals with the placement of a 600ft barge, sheetpile, 

and riprap closing to close off this 975ft bayou. This measure held back over 3.5ft of flood 

water, preventing backwater flooding of Morgan City, Houma, and surrounding communities.

 v. Old River Control Complex. The Old River Control structures are operated to 

maintain the distribution of flow between the Mississippi River and the Atchafalaya River, and 

also prevent the Atchafalaya River from capturing the flow of the Mississippi River. The Old 

River Control Complex exceeded its design capacities while diverting high flows from the 

Mississippi River. Wave wash erosion was spotted on the banks behind the wing walls and 

emergency scour repairs were performed. The area was monitored for the remainder of the 

event. 

vi. Morganza Floodway . The purpose of the floodway in conjunction with the Atchafalaya 

Basin Floodway is to carry flood water from the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico via the 

lower Atchafalaya River and the Wax Lake Outlet. The structure is designed to pass up to 

600,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) of water to the Gulf of Mexico, alleviating stress for mainline 

levees downstream along the Mississippi River. On 14 May 2011, 2 gate bays at the Morganza 

Control Structure were opened. Navigation notice Morganza_11-49 was issued concerning the 

operation of the Morganza Control Structure. Notice Morganza_11-50 was issued the following 

day updating the operation of the structure. From the period of 14 May to 18 May 2011, a total 

of seventeen (17) bays were opened reaching peaking flows of approx 180,000 cfs. On 29 May 

2011 with 11 gate bays open, two areas of the sandbags on the south guide levee of the 

Morganza Forebay were overtopped. The Morganza Floodway was closed on 7 July 2011 and 

returned to normal operations when the Red River Landing gage read 45.37’. 

 vii. Bonnet Carré Spillway. On 09 May, the Bonnet Carre Structure per the Water 

Control Manual was operated to maintain flows within the Mississippi River and/or maintain safe 

levels of freeboard downstream. On 14 May, additional material was placed on the upper guide 

levee, along Airline Highway (US 61) for additional freeboard. A 1,600- foot potato ridge levee 

was constructed on the south side (front side) of Airline Highway. The spur levee at the far end 

of the spillway was overtopped into the lake, which resulted in no major consequences. A few 

gages and four of the original structure needles were lost during operation of the structure. On 

22 May, a 26-foot section of the railroad bridge within the Bonnet Carre spillway collapsed. On 

28 May the line was fully reopened to rail traffic. 

Supplies issued to parishes:

Hesco Baskets 44,900 lf

Jumbo Sandbags 9,850

Sandbags 1,219,800

Polyethylene Sheeting 524
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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New Orleans District (MVN) 2011 Flood Fight Funding Details:

3112 MR&T Appropriation Direct: $7,040,903

3125 FCCE Transferred to MR&T Project: $13,249,130

3125 FCCE Emergency Operations: $3,843,418

MVN Total Flood Fight: $24,133,451

Figure (10) Scour at Morganza Floodway Morganza Floodway (11)
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

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SECTION III - DAMAGES & IMMEDIATE NEEDS

3.1 GENERAL APPROACH/ CRITERIA/ FACTORS CONSIDERED / DATA USED

As the waters rose during the great flood of 2011, damage assessment teams began the task of 

inspecting the levees. While documenting and uploading information to be used to prepare 

assessments of the damages caused by the great flood, the teams identified seeps, boils, slides 

and other anomalies. Once the waters receded, these teams continued their assessments and 

prepared documents which identified the location, nature, extent, repair alternatives and 

estimated preliminary repair costs for these damaged areas. In order to keep data gathering 

consistent, all assessments utilized a Damage Assessment Report (DAR) format. 44 separate 

DARs were conducted to ensure that all levee reaches, structures and navigational river miles 

affected by this event were inspected and thoroughly documented. The reports were submitted 

to an oversight team to ensure the consistency, functionality and quality of the final product. 

In addition to the thousands of pages of DAR information, single sheet project information 

papers were developed. These information papers were produced to summarize the DAR 

information and provide a general background on flood damages, potential consequences, 

repair options and a tentative schedule for repair. Based upon the severity of the damages and 

the guidance provided by the FRAGO classification guidance, a regionally prioritized list of 

projects was developed by MVD. 

USACE GUIDANCE: FRAGO 1 (USACE Guidance for Emergency Repairs) to OPORD 2011-

50 2011 Greater Mississippi Basin Flood Repairs and Post-Flood Assessment of Response 

Operations

Commanders Intent: USACE will develop, validate and prioritize the requirements to provide 

critical interim repairs to protect life and ensure public safety prior to the start of the next flood 

event or season. 

RISK CLASSIFICATIONS

Class I: High Potential for Loss of Life. Only critical repairs for breached or severely damaged 

Civil Works Projects where the probability of inundation combined with a probable loss of life 

results in extremely high risk.

Class II: Significant Potential for Loss of Life and Significant Economic Damage. Only critical 

repairs for damaged Civil Works Projects where the probability of failure during the next high 

water event combined with the probability for loss of life and significant economic damages 

results in very high risk. 

Class III: High Impact to Navigation (IIIa) or Indirect Potential for Loss of Life (IIIb) or critical 

repairs for damaged Civil Works Projects where failure during the next high water event could 

potentially disrupt essential lifeline services or access to these services

Class IV: Other Risk and Impact Reduction Measures. Any critical repairs for damages not 

described in Classes I-III. 
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

17

RISK MATRIX

Failure Likely Categories

High – Direct evidence or substantial indirect evidence to suggest failure has already occurred 

and/or is likely to occur during a flood

Moderate – The fundamental condition or defect is known to exist, indirect evidence suggests it 

is plausible, and key evidence is weighted more heavily toward likely than unlikely to occur 

during a flood

Low – The possibility cannot be ruled out, but there is no compelling evidence to suggest it has 

occurred or that a condition or flaw exists that could lead to its development during a flood 

Remote – Several events must occur concurrently or in series to trigger failure. Most, if not all of 

the events are very unlikely to occur during a flood 

Consequences Categories

Level 0 – No significant impacts to the effected population. Relatively minor impact to 

navigation for high-use projects (over 10M tons at ports and 2.5B ton-mile for inland waterways 

projects). 

 

Level 1 – Although people are at risk, there is only an indirect potential for loss of life. 

Transportation links are damaged that could disrupt lifeline services; OR 

Safe navigation for high-use projects (over 10M tons at ports and 2.5B ton-mile for inland 

waterways projects) is directly impaired. 

 

Level 2 – Significant potential for loss of life and economic damage due to impaired navigation 

and property damage.

 

Level 3 – High potential for loss of life and economic damage due to impaired navigation and 

damage to critical infrastructure. 

2011 Flood Damage Risk Matrix

High Class IIIb Class II Class II Class I

Moderate Class IV Class IIIa Class II Class II

Low Class IV Class IIIa Class IIIa Class II

Remote Class IV Class IV Class IV Class IIIb

Level 0 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3

Failure Likelihood

Consequences

CRITICAL REPAIRS

NON-CRITICAL REPAIRS
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

18

3.2 GENERAL APPROACH/ CRITERIA/ FACTORS CONSIDERED / DATA USED

Following the development and validation of the information provided in the Damage 

Assessment Reports (DARs), prioritization was given using guidance from the FRAGO 1: 

USACE Guidance for Emergency Repairs to make a determination of immediate risk reduction 

measures needed to prepare the system for the next high water event. Prior to the passage of 

the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2012, PL 112-74 which provided $1.7 Billion in 

supplemental funding, the USACE recognized the immediate urgency to self fund 29 projects 

within the valley at cost of $170 million. These projects located throughout MVD and in each of 

the Division's six districts, include Mississippi River Levees (MRL), Channel Improvements (CI), 

Structures, and Dredging project features. 

Feature Flood Damaged Site CORPS 

DISTRICT STATE Estimated Cost FY11-12 Funds Allocated 

MRL BPNM Floodway - Make Safe and Stable MVM MO $25,000,000 $25,000,000

CI Cache-Cairo MVM IL $26,110,000 $26,110,000

MRL City of Cairo, IL MVM IL $4,600,000 $4,600,000

MRL Cairo Parcel 5 MVM IL $10,400,000 $10,400,000

MRL Above Cairo Parcel 2A - Relief Wells MVM IL $6,769,221 $6,769,221

MRL Above Cairo Parcel 2 - Slurry Trench MVM IL $1,900,514 $1,900,514

MRL Buck Chute MVK MS $2,640,000 $2,640,000

MRL Albermarle Slide MVK MS $1,006,000 $1,006,000

MRL Duncan Point MVN LA $8,850,000 $8,850,000

MRL Baton Rouge Front MVN LA $1,762,000 $1,762,000

CI Third District MVN LA $11,400,000 $11,400,000

Struct Morganza Control, Piezometers and relief wells MVN LA $2,460,000 $2,460,000

CI Merriwether-Cherokee, top bank and revetment 

d h

MVM TN $24,115,000 $6,800,000

CI Presidents Island MVM TN $26,689,000 $7,300,000

PL84-99 Souris River MVP ND $5,000,000 $2,030,000

PL84-99 Scott County Levee Breach MVS IL $1,716,000 $1,716,000

Dredge Deep Draft Projects - MR Baton Rouge to Gulf MVN LA $10,000,000 $6,000,000

Dredge Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, LA MVN LA $3,000,000 $3,000,000

FCCE Tolna Coulee Advance Measures MVP ND $5,680,250 $5,680,250

Dredge Miss River Btwn Mo River and Minneapolis, MN MVR MO/IL/IA/WI $500,000 $500,000

Dredge Miss River, Cairo to Mouth of Missouri MVS MO / IL $2,000,000 $2,000,000

CI Chute of Island 8 MVM KY $9,650,000 $600,000

CI Greenville Bend MVN LA $3,902,000 $5,500,000

CI Avondale Bend, RM 108.0 MVN LA $4,700,000 $4,700,000

CI Avondale Bend, RM 108.3 MVN LA $4,703,000 $4,703,000

CI Port Allen MVN LA $3,800,000 $3,800,000

CI Kempe Bend MVK LA / MS $10,920,000 $12,167,000

CI Bourgere MVN LA $23,587,000 $147,800

CI Richardson Landing Casting Field MVM KY $10,000,000 $1,100,000

$252,859,985 $170,641,785

MVDs OPERATION WATERSHED - RECOVERY

MVD 2011 Critical Flood Repair Projects: Immediate Needs

TOTALS

Table(8)

Data date: 6 Jan. 2012
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

19

1. PHYSICAL COMPONENTS/FEATURES. The following sections provide general 

descriptions of priority activities which are currently underway as of 30 March 2012 in an 

effort to manage and mitigate risks caused by 2011 flood damages. The items have 

been categorized into project features including MRL, CI, Structures, Dredging, and PL 

84-99 projects. 

A. Mississippi River Levee Items - 9 MRL items were identified for a total 

estimated cost of $63 Million. 2 located in MS., 2 in LA. 4 in IL., and one project 

located in MO. In General, the interim measures and repair work of these 

construction efforts consists of berms and relief wells, slide and slope 

stabilization, and repairs to address major seepage concerns. Additional site 

specific information including costs, schedules for completion, and construction 

updates are available via Corpsmap.

Feature Flood Damaged Site CORPS 

DISTRICT STATE

MRL BPNM Floodway - Make Safe and Stable MVM MO

MRL City of Cairo, IL MVM IL

MRL Cairo Parcel 5 MVM IL

MRL Above Cairo Parcel 2A - Relief Wells MVM IL

MRL Above Cairo Parcel 2 - Slurry Trench MVM IL

MRL Buck Chute MVK MS

MRL Albermarle Slide MVK MS

MRL Duncan Point MVN LA

MRL Baton Rouge Front MVN LA

Table(9)

B. Channel Improvement Items - 12 CI items were identified for a total estimated 

cost of $159.6 Million. 2 of the projects are located in Ky., 6 in La. 2 in Tn., and 

one each in IL. and Ms. In General, the repair work of these construction efforts 

consists of stone dike revetments, Articulated Concrete Mat and stone bank 

paving. Additional site specific information including costs, schedules for 

completion, and construction updates see is available via Corpsmap.

Feature Flood Damaged Site CORPS 

DISTRICT STATE

CI Cache-Cairo MVM IL

CI Third District MVN LA

CI Merriwether-Cherokee, top bank and revetment 

d h

MVM TN

CI Presidents Island MVM TN

CI Chute of Island 8 MVM KY

CI Greenville Bend MVN LA

CI Avondale Bend, RM 108.0 MVN LA

CI Avondale Bend, RM 108.3 MVN LA

CI Port Allen MVN LA

CI Kempe Bend MVK LA / MS

CI Bourgere MVN LA

CI Richardson Landing Casting Field MVM KY

Table(10)
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

20

C. Dredging Items - 4 dredging items were identified for a total estimated cost 

of $15.5 Million, in various states in MO/IL/IA/WI . In General, the repair work 

of these construction efforts consists of Mechanical and Hydraulic dredging. 

Additional site specific information including costs, schedules for completion, 

and construction updates see is available via Corpsmap

Feature Flood Damaged Site CORPS 

DISTRICT

Dredge Deep Draft Projects - MR Baton Rouge to Gulf MVN

Dredge Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, LA MVN

Dredge Miss River Btwn Mo River and Minneapolis, MN MVR 

Dredge Miss River, Cairo to Mouth of Missouri MVS

Table(11)

D. Structures - 1 Structure items was identified for a total estimated cost of 

$2.46 Million. Located in LA., the repair work of this construction effort 

consists of replacement of Piezometers and Refurbishing Relief Wells at the 

Morganza Control Structure. Additional site specific information including 

costs, schedules for completion, and construction updates see is available via 

Corpsmap. 

Feature Flood Damaged Site CORPS 

DISTRICT

Struct Morganza Control, Piezometers and relief wells MVN

Table(12)

G. PL 84-99 - 2 items were identified for a total estimated cost of $6.7 Million. 

Located in ND. and IL., the repair work for these construction efforts consist 

of repairs to levees and pumpstations. Additional site specific information 

including costs, schedules for completion, and construction updates see is 

available via Corpsmap.

Feature Flood Damaged Site CORPS 

DISTRICT

PL84-99 Souris River MVP

PL84-99 Scott County Levee Breach MVS

Table(13)
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

21

SECTION IV - RECOVERY NEEDS (Critical projects)

4.1 GENERAL APPROACH/ CRITERIA/ FACTORS CONSIDERED / DATA USED 

Following the development and validation of the information provided in the Damage 

Assessment Reports (DARs), prioritization was given using guidance from the FRAGO 1: 

USACE Guidance for Emergency Repairs to make a determination of critical projects needed to 

prepare the system for the next high water event. Critical need items were identified throughout 

MVD and in each of the Division's six districts. The passage of the Consolidated Appropriations 

Act 2012, PL 112-74 provided $1.7 Billion in supplemental funding for the USACE to construct 

these critical need projects which include Levees, Channel Improvement, Structures, and 

Dredging project features. 

Table(14)

No. 

Projects

3

Levee 1

Dredge 1

Structures 1

3

Dredge 1

Structures 2

6

Levee 2

Dredge 4

26

Levee 12

Channel Improvements 9

Dredge 4

Structures 1

45

Levee 23

Channel Improvements 11

Dredge 10

Structures 1

35

Levee 12

Channel Improvements 13

Dredge 6

Structures 4

118

MVDs OPERATION WATERSHED - RECOVERY

2011 MVD Critical Flood Repair Projects

Last Update: 29 MAR 2012

Critical (FRAGO I-IIIA) Flood Repair Projects

ST. PAUL DISTRICT

ROCK ISLAND DISTRICT

ST. LOUIS DISTRICT

MEMPHIS DISTRICT

VICKSBURG DISTRICT

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DIVISION TOTAL

NEW ORLEANS DISTRICT
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

22

4.2 PHYSICAL COMPONENTS/FEATURES - The following sections provide general 

descriptions of activities which have been identified in an effort to manage and mitigate risks 

caused by 2011 flood damages. The items have been categorized into project features 

including MRL, CI, Structures, and Dredging projects. 

A. Levee Items - 50 MRL items were identified for a total estimated cost of $386.4

Million. 11 located in Ms., 19 in La. 2 in KY., 2 in MO., 2 in TN., 1 in ND., and 7 

projects located in AR. In general, the repair work of these construction efforts 

consists of berms and relief wells, slide and slope stabilization, and repairs to 

address major seepage concerns. Additional site specific information including 

damages incurred, recommended repairs, estimated costs, and timeline for 

award is available via Corpsmap.

TYPE OW-R REPAIR/RESTORE PROJECTS CORPS STATE

Levee Buck Chute MVK MS

Levee Albermarle Slide MVK MS

Levee Francis (Sand Boil - Rosedale) MVK MS

Levee Winterville MVK MS

Levee Lake Bruin MVK LA

Levee Leland Chute AR 2150+00 MVK AR

Levee Lake Chicot MVK AR

Levee Henderson MVK LA

Levee Ice Box Hole MVK LA

Levee Tara MVK MS

Levee Avon MVK MS

Levee Leota MVK MS

Levee Ben Lomand MVK MS

Levee Lake Jackson MVK MS

Levee Greenville MVK MS

Levee Lake St. John MVK LA

Levee Davis Landing (Lake St. Joseph) MVK LA

Levee St. Joe MVK LA

Levee Willow Lake MVK AR

Levee Grand Lake MVK AR

Levee Wilson Point MVK LA

Levee AR 2250+00 MVK AR

Levee Lake Chicot Pumping Station MVK AR

Table(15 a) 
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

23

TYPE OW-R REPAIR/RESTORE PROJECTS CORPS STATE

Levee Above Cairo Parcel 2A - Relief Wells MVM IL

Levee BPNM Floodway - Make Safe/Stable & Restore MVM MO

Levee Above Cairo Parcel 2 - Slurry Trench MVM IL

Levee City of Cairo, IL MVM IL

Levee Cairo Parcel 5 MVM IL

Levee Island 8, KY MVM KY

Levee Yazoo MP 89/90 to MP 92/93 (Rena Lara) MVM MS

Levee Nash Levee MVM MO

Levee Gammon Area boils LM 141 MVM AR

Levee Dyer County Levee Breach MVM TN

Levee Ensley Levee Breach MVM TN

Levee Cates Levee (Madrid Bend) MVM KY

Levee Duncan Point MVN LA

Levee Baton Rouge Front MVN LA

Levee Jackson Barricks Slope Paving MVN LA

Levee Belle Chase Slope Paving MVN LA

Levee Chalmette Seepage MVN LA

Levee Audubon Seepage MVN LA

Levee Blackhawk Slide MVN LA

Levee Huey P Long Seepage MVN LA

Levee Old River Seepage MVN LA

Levee Algiers Seepage MVN LA

Levee Pt Coupee Seepage MVN LA

Levee Pt Pleasant Seepage MVN LA

Levee Souris River MVP ND

Levee Scott County Levee Breach MVS IL

Levee Len Small Levee Breach MVS IL

Table(15 b)

B. CI Items - 33 CI items were identified for a total estimated cost of $227.6 Million. 

4 of the projects are located in AR., 19 in LA., 3 in TN., 3 in MS., 1 in IL., 1 in KY. 

and 2 in multiple states. In general, the repair work of these construction efforts 

consists of stone dike revetments, Articulated Concrete Mat and stone bank 

paving. Additional site specific information including damages incurred, 

recommended repairs, estimated costs, and timeline for award is available via 

Corpsmap.
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

24

TYPE OW-R REPAIR/RESTORE PROJECTS CORPS STATE

CI Walnut Point/ Kentucky Bend MVK MS

CI Milliken Bend MVK LA

CI Cypress Bend MVK AR

CI Gibson MVK LA

CI Morville MVK LA

CI Hardscrabble DS Ext MVK LA

CI Mayersville MVK MS

CI Goodrich Upstream Extension MVK LA

CI Mississippi River Repairs btn 610-320 AHP MVK VARIOUS

CI Big Island MVK AR

CI Kemp Bend MVK LA

CI Cache-Cairo MVM IL

CI Chute of Island 8 MVM KY

CI Walnut Bend MVM AR

CI Randolph Dikes MVM TN

CI Merriwether-Cherokee, top bank and revetment MVM TN

CI Mississippi River Repairs btn 956-599 AHP MVM VARIOUS

CI Presidents Island MVM TN

CI Oldtown MVM AR

CI Rescue MVM MS

CI Greenville Bend MVN LA

CI Avondale Bend, RM 108.0 MVN LA

CI Avondale Bend, RM 108.3 MVN LA

CI Port Allen MVN LA

CI Alliance MVN LA

CI Third District MVN LA

CI Saint Gabriel MVN LA

CI English Turn MVN LA

CI Saint Alice MVN LA

CI Tropical Bend MVN LA

CI Port Sulphur MVN LA

CI Gravolet MVN LA

CI Mississippi River Repairs btn 320-0 AHP MVN LA

Table(16 ) 
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

25

C. Dredging Items - 26 dredging items were identified for a total estimated cost of 

$166.4 Million, in various states in throughout the division . In General, the repair 

work of these construction efforts consists of Mechanical and Hydraulic dredging. 

Additional site specific information including damages incurred, recommended 

repairs, estimated costs, and timeline for award is available via Corpsmap.

TYPE OW-R REPAIR/RESTORE PROJECTS CORPS STATE

Dredge Victoria Bend Dredging MVK MS / AR

Dredge Lake Providence Harbor, LA MVK LA

Dredge Vicksburg Harbor, MS MVK MS

Dredge Greenville Harbor, MS MVK MS

Dredge Yellow Bend Harbor MVK AR/MS

Dredge Madison Parish Port MVK LA

Dredge Rosedale Harbor MVK MS/AR

Dredge Ouachita/Black River, Dredging MVK LA

Dredge Mouth of the Yazoo River, MS MVK MS/LA

Dredge Red River, Dredging MVK LA

Dredge McKellar Lake Dredging MVM TN / AR 

Dredge Sycamore Chute Dredging MVM TN / AR

Dredge New Madrid Co. Harbor, MO MVM MO

Dredge Elvis Stahr Harbor, KY MVM KY

Dredge Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, LA MVN LA

Dredge Deep Draft Projects MVN LA

Dredge Deep Draft Projects - MR Baton Rouge to Gulf MVN LA

Dredge Baton Rouge Harbor (Devils Swamp) - MVN LA

Dredge Atchafalaya Basin, Dredging MVN LA 

Dredge Old River , Maintenance MVN LA

Dredge Mississippi River (MVP Portion) MVP WI / MN

Dredge Miss River Btwn Mo River and Minneapolis, MN MVR MO/IL/IA/

Dredge Miss River btn MO River & Minneapolis, MN MVS MO / IL

Dredge Miss River, Cairo to Mouth of Missouri MVS MO / IL

Dredge SEMO Port MVS MO

Dredge Kaskaskia Navigation Project Dredging MVS IL

Table(17)
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

26

D. Structures - 9 Structure items were identified for a total estimated cost of $49 

Million, in various states in throughout the division. The repair work for these 

construction efforts consists of repair associated with heavy scour and other 

damages due to operation of various structures during the flood. Additional site 

specific information including damages incurred, recommended repairs, 

estimated costs, and timeline for award is available via Corpsmap.

TYPE OW-R REPAIR/RESTORE PROJECTS CORPS STATE

Struct Muddy Bayou - Roller Gate Operators MVK MS

Struct New Madrid Mainline Culvert Failure, MO MVM MO

Struct Morganza Control, Piezometers and relief wells MVN LA

Struct Old River Aux CS MVN LA

Struct Morganza Control, Stilling Basin MVN LA

Struct Morganza Control, Lower Guide Levee MVN LA

Struct Tolna Coulee Advance Measures MVP ND

Struct UMR Locks (16-17-20-21-22) Electical I Wall MVR IL, IA, MO

Struct UMR LD17 and LD20 Machinery Supports MVR IL, IA, MO

Table(18)
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

27

SECTION V - RECOVERY NEEDS (Non-Critical projects)

5.1 GENERAL APPROACH/ CRITERIA/ FACTORS CONSIDERED / DATA USED 

Following the development and validation of the information provided in the DARs, prioritization 

was given using guidance from the FRAGO 1: USACE Guidance for Emergency Repairs to 

make a determination of non-critical projects needed to prepare the system for the next high 

water event. 302 non-critical need items were identified throughout MVD and in each of the 

Division's six districts. The passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2012, PL 112-74 

provided $1.7 Billion in supplemental funding for the USACE to construct many of these noncritical need projects which include Levees, Structures, Recreation, Drainage, and Dredging 

project features. This funding is however insufficient to provide repairs on some 195 of the noncritical Channel Improvement (CI) Projects. 

Table(19)

No. 

Projects

3

Structures 3

7

Dredge 6

Structures 1

17

Levee 7

Structures 7

Rec. Sites 3

96

Levee 3

Channel Improvements 73

Dredge 9

Drainage 11

99

Levee 12

Channel Improvements 64

Rec. Sites 23

80

Levee 2

Channel Improvements 69

Structures 9

302

ROCK ISLAND DISTRICT

ST. LOUIS DISTRICT

MEMPHIS DISTRICT

VICKSBURG DISTRICT

NEW ORLEANS DISTRICT

MVDs OPERATION WATERSHED - RECOVERY

2011 MVD Non-Critical Flood Repair Projects

Last Update: 29 MAR 2012

Non-Critical (FRAGO III B - IV) Flood Repair Projects

ST. PAUL DISTRICT

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DIVISION TOTAL
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

28

5.2 PHYSICAL COMPONENTS/FEATURES - The following sections provide general 

descriptions of activities which have been identified in an effort to manage and mitigate risks 

caused by 2011 flood damages. The items have been categorized into project features 

including Levees, CI, Structures, Recreation, Drainage, and Dredging project features. 

A. Levees - 24 items were identified for a total estimated cost of $54.6 Million in 

various states throughout the division. In General, the repair work of these 

construction efforts consists of slide and slope stabilization, repairs to address 

seepage concerns, and repair to facilities damaged because of the flood. 

Additional site specific information including damages incurred, recommended 

repairs, estimated costs, and timeline for award is available via Corpsmap.

B. CI Items - 206 CI items were identified for a total estimated cost of $562.6 Million 

in various states in throughout the division. In General, the repair work of these 

construction efforts consists of stone dike revetments, Articulated Concrete Mat 

and stone bank paving. Additional site specific information including damages 

incurred, recommended repairs, estimated costs, and timeline for award is 

available via Corpsmap.

C. Dredging Items - 15 dredging items were identified for a total estimated cost of 

$8.1 Million in various states in throughout the division. In General, the repair 

work of these construction efforts consists of Mechanical and Hydraulic dredging. 

Additional site specific information including damages incurred, recommended 

repairs, estimated costs, and timeline for award is available via Corpsmap.

D. Structures - 20 items were identified for a total estimated cost of $34.1 Million in 

various states in throughout the division. In General, the repair work associated 

with these construction efforts consists of repair to various structures due to 

damages incurred during the 2011 flood. Additional site specific information 

including damages incurred, recommended repairs, estimated costs, and timeline 

for award is available via Corpsmap.

E. Recreation Items - 26 Items were identified for a total estimated cost of $4.5 

Million in various states in throughout the division. In General, the repair work 

associated with these construction efforts consists of repair to various recreation 

sites due to damages incurred during the 2011 flood. Additional site specific 

information including damages incurred, recommended repairs, estimated costs, 

and timeline for award is available via Corpsmap.

F. Drainage Items - 11 items were identified for a total estimated cost of $25.6 

Million in various states in throughout the division. In General, the repair work 

associated with these construction efforts consists of repair to various drainage 

items due to damages incurred during the 2011 flood. Additional site specific 

information including damages incurred, recommended repairs, estimated costs, 

and timeline for award is available via Corpsmap.
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

29

SECTION VI - RESERVOIRS AND FLOODWAYS 

6.1 GENERAL OVERVIEW - Reservoirs and Floodways are key components of the flood risk 

management system. The following sections provide general descriptions of physical 

components and operational features of the Reservoirs and floodways which are currently 

underway in an effort to manage and mitigate risks caused by 2011 flood damages. The items 

have been categorized into project features and further detailed information can be found in 

Appendix(E): Reservoirs And Floodways

A. RESERVOIRS - Overall the reservoir system is in excellent shape, which combined with their 

flood-tested water control manuals will serve well to protect the MR&T System for the upcoming 

flood season. The reservoirs sustained very little damage that would preclude them from 

operating fully. In addition, the overall weather conditions are very favorable for protecting 

against another major flood along the MR&T System. Snowpack is well below the long-term 

average across the Greater Mississippi River Basin. The ground saturation conditions 

throughout the entire basin are generally below average except for the Ohio River Basin 

(Figures 18 & 19). The precipitation for the upcoming season shows no significant variance from 

an average year, with the exception of a wet Ohio River Basin (Figure 16). In fact, the National 

Weather Service is forecasting drought-type conditions on the upper portions of the Upper 

Mississippi River Basin and drought-type conditions forming on the Upper Missouri River Basin 

(Figure 17). Reservoir system storage throughout the Greater Mississippi River Basin is near 

optimal. (See Figures 12-15). Figures and tables provided below refer to storage capacities in 

Millions of Acre-Feet (MAF).

B. FLOODWAYS - The floodways are also ready to protect the MR&T System, but the 

conditions of the floodways are less than optimal. The 2011 flood event has exposed 

vulnerabilities to the floodways. Birds Point/New Madrid Floodway (BPNM) has been 

temporarily restored to activate at a stage at Cairo of 55 ft. which is 6 ft below where the 

floodway would typically be activated. 55 ft. at Cairo is estimated to be less than a 25 year flood 

event. The other two floodways impacted by the 2011 flood event should be able to be 

operated for the design flood with the present interim operating plan.

Hydrologic conditions are favorable; however the decreased protection of the BPNM floodway 

has heightened the potential for damages in the floodway for moderate flood events. Given the 

above normal soil moisture and precipitation forecast for the Ohio River Basin, it is likely that 

any significant flooding is likely to originate in the Ohio River Basin. Therefore close monitoring 

of the Ohio River System is warranted.
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

30

Mississippi Valley Division (MVD)

Table (20): Mississippi Valley Division Storage Availability.

District

Current Storage 

Available (MAF)

(14-FEB-2012)

Storage Available 

Last Year (MAF)

(14-FEB-2011)

Average Storage 

Available (MAF)

(14-FEB)

St. Paul (MVP) 1.4 1.3 1.4

Rock Island (MVR) 2.4 2.4 2.4

St. Louis (MVS) 2.8 2.9 2.8

Vicksburg (MVK) 5.1 5.1 -

Division Total 11.6 11.8 11.7

Figure12: Mississippi Valley Division Storage Availability.
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

31

Northwestern Division (NWD)

Table 21: Northwestern Division Storage Availability.

Current Storage 

Available (MAF)

(14-FEB-2012)

Storage Available 

Last Year (MAF)

(14-FEB-2011)

Average Storage 

Available (MAF)

(14-FEB)

Mainstem Missouri 16.7 16.2 20.61

1 – Note: the average is from 1967-2011, which includes the significant drought years.

Figure 13: Northwestern Division Storage Availability.
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

32

Great Lakes and Ohio River Division

Table 22: Great Lakes and Ohio River Division Storage Availability.

Current Storage 

Available (MAF)

(14-FEB-2012)

Storage Available 

Last Year (MAF)

(14-FEB-2011)

Average Storage 

Available (MAF)

(14-FEB)

System Storage 18.21 18.61 17.91

1 – Note: the average is from 2008-2011, which includes the drowdowns at reservoirs that are DSAC 1’s.

Figure 14: Great Lakes and Ohio River Division Storage Availability.
4/12/12 MVD FLOOD PREPAREDNESS SUMMARY REPORT 

33

Southwestern Division

Table 23: Southwestern Division Storage Availability.

Current Storage 

Available (MAF)

(14-FEB-2012)

Storage Available 

Last Year (MAF)

(14-FEB-2011)

Average Storage 

Available (MAF)

(14-FEB)

System Storage 16.2 16.3 -

Figure 15: Southwestern Division Storage Availability.

SECTION VII – NWS SPRING FLOOD OUTLOOK (Issued Mar 15, 2012) 

7.1 General Overview

An above normal risk for spring flooding exists over the Lower Ohio Valley and parts of the 

Central Gulf Coast in Southern Louisiana and Mississippi. Above normal precipitation this winter 

in parts of the Ohio River Valley has caused high soil moisture and above-normal river levels.

The forecast through April calls for above-normal precipitation in the Ohio River Valley which

could lead to flooding. For the first time in 4 years, the Northern Plains are not expecting major 

to record snowmelt flooding. Most of the Upper Mississippi and Middle to Upper Missouri River 

Basins have a below normal risk of flooding. The nation's farthest northern basins of North 

Dakota and Montana including the Red River of the North, Souris River and the Missouri 

headwater have a normal risk of flooding, and will not be significantly impacted by snowpack 

this year.
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All other areas in this map have a normal risk of spring flooding. In this category areas prone to 

spring flooding are expected to experience that normal level of flooding. For example, the lower 

Missouri valley commonly experience minor flooding each spring with little impacts. Heavy 

rainfall at any time can lead to river and/or flash flooding, even in areas where overall risk is 

considered normal to below normal.

Uncertainty associated with this flood outlook for the continental U.S. is greater than in previous 

years given the primary driver for this outlook is rainfall rather than snowmelt.

Figure 16. US Spring Flood Risk (March 15, 2012)

7.2 Heavy Rainfall and Flooding

The information presented in this section focuses on spring flood potential, using evaluation 

methods analyzed on the scale of weeks to months, not days. Heavy rainfall at any time can 

lead to flooding, even in areas where overall risk is considered normal to below normal. Rainfall 

intensity and location cannot be accurately forecasted beyond a few days in the future, therefore 

flood risk in these areas can change rapidly.

Stay current with flood risk in your area with the latest official watches and warnings at 

weather.gov. For detailed hydrologic conditions and forecasts, go to www.water.weather.gov. 

7.3 Above Normal Flood Risk Areas

Lower Ohio Valley

Soil moisture is above normal through the Lower Ohio Valley in response to above normal 

precipitation (125-200%) over the last six months. April forecasts call for above average 

precipitation over the Ohio Valley to continue into the spring.

Central Gulf Coast

Based on current conditions and extended range precipitation forecasts, an above normal flood 

potential exists along the Central Gulf Coast in Southern Louisiana and Mississippi. 
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Streamflows in those areas are above normal in response to a series of heavy rain events over 

the last 30 to 45 days.

Citizens are encouraged to remain up-to-date on flood conditions by monitoring the latest 

forecasts from your local National Weather Service office.

7.4 Normal Flood Risk Areas

Red River of the North, Souris, and Central Plains

The Red River of the North, the Souris River Basin, and most of the Missouri River Basin 

(Northeast North Dakota, Northwest Minnesota, Montana, Wyoming, Northeast Colorado, 

Southern South Dakota, Nebraska, Northern Kansas,Iowa and Missouri) have a normal risk of 

flooding.

The spring flood risk in these areas is largely driven by snowmelt flooding. With the below to 

near-normal winter snowfall this is the first time in 4 years these areas are not preparing for 

major to record snowmelt flooding. The Northern Rockies of the Missouri Basin contain near the 

historical normal amount of snow water content for this point in winter. The Souris and Red 

River basins contain about one-third the amount of water in the snow as last year, ranking this 

season in the lower half of the last 60 years.

7.5 Below Normal Flood Risk Areas

The following regions are outlined with a low risk of long range spring flood risk, and many are

experiencing drought. It is important to remember that intense precipitation at any location, 

regardless of past conditions, can rapidly change risk, often on the scale of hours. Deadly 

localized flooding during severe weather outbreaks is possible, and common, regardless of long 

term risk.

Always stay current with any Watches and Warnings from your local NWS Forecast Office, and

follow the advice of your local emergency management officials should flash flooding effect your

area. Please visit drought.gov for detailed outlooks, impacts and information related to your 

area.

Upper Mississippi and Upper Missouri Valleys

In stark contrast to water year 2011, precipitation this water year (since Oct 1, 2011) has been

less than 50% of the normal across the Upper Mississippi and Upper Missouri Valleys. 

Snowpack in these regions is well below levels needed to warrant large scale flooding, and will 

not play a role in this year's spring flooding across the northern US. The High Plains of the 

Missouri Basin contain little to no snow, in stark contrast to last year when the high plains were 

blanketed with a wet snowpack at this time.

7.1 General Overview

7.2 Heavy Rainfall and Flooding

7.3 Above Normal Flood Risk Areas

7.4 Normal Flood Risk Areas

7.5 Below Normal Flood Risk Areas
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Figure 17: 3-Month Precipitation Outlook.

Figure18: 3-Month Drought Outlook.
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Figure 19: February Soil Moisture.

Figure 20: February Soil Moisture Departure from Normal.
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SECTION VIII - RISK COMMUNICATION PLAN AND PRODUCTS

8.1 GENERAL OVERVIEW - The risk communication plan provides structure and guidance to 

discuss internally and with partners, stakeholders, and the public the damages caused by the 

2011 flooding of the Mississippi River Valley, and the associated risks to the watershed. 

Documents have been produced to communicate the Corps efforts to manage, mitigate and 

communicate flood risks throughout the valley with, its stakeholders, the media, and the public. 

The public will be given the opportunity to view and understand our efforts prior to and during 

the upcoming flood season through the use of regional tools and products.

The major components of the risk communication strategy include principles of open and 

transparent communication guided by the following goal and objectives. 

GOALS & OBJECTIVES: 

• Discuss with sponsors, stakeholders and the public the risks associated with the system 

and the shared responsibility for risk management; 

• Improve understanding of risk; 

• Drive action to mitigate or reduce risk; 

• Build the foundation for a shared responsibility approach to planning non-routine risk 

reduction measures 

8.2 COMMUNICATION TOOLS AND PRODUCTS: 

1. The following products were generated and updated through this effort to improve partner’s 

understanding of risks within the MR&T and coordinate how risks are being addressed. 

Product Purpose Updates

Project Risk Information Paper Provides general background on flood 

damages, potential consequences, repair 

options and tentative schedule. This 

information is available through 

CorpsMap. 

Annually by district 

Sub-system Risk Document Provides details on the elevated risks 

associated with a levee sub-system. This

3-4 page document includes a map, table 

and text discussing and comparing risks 

of all damaged locations in the subsystem and identifies key risk areas. This 

information can be requested through 

USACE District offices.

Biannually by MMC
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Project Risk Management Paper Describes how risks at damaged 

locations are being addressed through 

construction, interim measures, and 

flood fight preparation. This information 

is available through CorpsMap.

Biannually by 

District 

Project Construction Fact Sheet Provides monthly status of ongoing 

construction activity, key milestones, % 

completion, project challenges, and 

funding. This information is available 

through CorpsMap.

Monthly by District

MR&T Estimated Level of 

Protection Map

Displays the level of protection currently 

provided by the MR&T system segments 

along the Mississippi River. The level of 

protection is represented by the size of 

the flood the system can currently pass 

without significant flood fight efforts. 

This map and supporting information is 

still under development. Requests for 

this information may be made through 

USACE District offices.

Biannually by MMC 

office

Local Inundation Maps Process to generate maps displaying 

time, depth, and potential consequences 

of inundation have been standardized by 

all USACE offices within the Mississippi 

Valley Division. Requests for hard copy 

inundation maps or related information 

may be made through USACE District 

offices.

Maps are 

generated for high 

risk areas and as 

needed based on 

flood conditions.
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2. CorpsMap, the USACE nationwide GIS application, is the single authoritative source for 

geospatial data assets. Up until recent months CorpsMap was an exclusive internal Corps 

system. The regional GIS cadre has worked to establish one of the first External CorpsMap 

sites, http://geo.usace.army.mil/egis/cm2.cm26.map?map=MVD_OWS with many 

capabilities specific to our needs for Regional Flood Risk Management. CorpsMap has been 

used to communicate information about the critical damage sites in the Mississippi River 

Valley. The tool allows our customers, stakeholders and the public to view the damages on 

a map, zoom in for location and item details (dredging, levee, channel improvement, or 

structure items), and query to obtain information papers, risk management papers, and fact 

sheets on each site.

3. Websites – A new MVD regional flood risk management website has been established as a 

primary conduit for external communication and access to Flood Season Preparedness and 

Regional Flood Risk Management (RFRM) documents and information: 

www.mvr.usace.army.mil/PublicAffairsOffice/frmp/rfrmp.htm . 

From the main RFRM page, visitors can access and gain more information from the 

following links:

a) Flood Season Preparedness: CorpsMap links, CorpsMap User’s Guide, 

Workshop Materials, Press Releases, Regional Risk Maps, and District 

Emergency Management pages

b) Interagency Recovery Task Force (IRTF): Meeting Materials

c) District web pages

d) Social Media Links 

FOLLOW-UP ACTIVITIES: As products and information is released, Public Affairs Officers (PAOs) 

will identify lessons learned, any additional products needed, and feedback which will be 

provided to MVD. Social media pages will continue to be monitored to ensure immediate 

feedback. Webpages will be monitored monthly to continue the consistencies with what is 

updated in CorpsMap and provide the latest press releases, talking points, and other pertinent 

information. Information gained will be incorporated into the MR&T Post Flood Report 

Communication section. 

EXAMPLE PRODUCTS: The following pages provide examples of products designed to effectively 

communicate risk information to partners and stakeholders and how elevated system risks 

are being addressed through construction, interim measures, flood fight preparedness.
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Information Papers provide details on risks and potential consequences at 

damaged system locations. These regionally consistent documents will be served 

and quickly accessible through the public CorpsMap site.
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Sub-system Risk Document provide details on the elevated risks associated with a levee 

sub-system. The 3-4 page document includes a map, table and text discussing and 

comparing risks of all damaged locations in the sub-system.
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Flood Risk Management Papers describe how risks at damaged locations are being 

addresses through construction, interim measures, and flood fight preparation. It is 

formatted into one easy to digest page describing the status of risk management efforts 

prior to the upcoming flood season. Distributed through CorpsMap, it will also identify 

mobilization activation stages and have a link to the NWS site for current stage forecasts.
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Construction Fact Sheets Provide monthly status of ongoing construction activity, key 

milestones, % completion, project challenges, and funding.