HOW?

Congress has authorized flood control for the South Delta over and over again in laws since 1941. The Corps of Engineers is charged with selecting the best Project and constructing it.

The Project has been studied exhaustively for years. During that time, the Mississippi Levee Board cooperated and initiated a public consensus process to address all interests. Now, after years of waiting, the Corps of Engineers completed the Final Report which will allow the Project to move forward.

The community has accepted a very different project than it was promised. Since the 1970's, the Project has changed from 100% reliance on pumping and flood water removal at 80 feet, to acceptance of a higher "pump on" elevation combined with reforestation and conservation on land at and below 87 feet at the Steele Bayou Structure. There will be 216,000 acres flooded before the pumps will be turned on.

Extensive data about the Project is reflected in the Corps of Engineers Environmental Impact Statement, prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act. Many factors have been considered in the design of the Yazoo Backwater Project, including environmental, engineering and economic impacts. http://www.mvk.usace.army.mil/offices/pp/projects/ybrsummary/index.htm

The Corps of Engineers considered many alternatives before deciding that the Project is the best combination of flood protection and natural resource enhancement. All reasonable alternatives suggested during public comments were thoroughly evaluated.

This reforested acreage is equivalent to the size of the Delta National Forest.

The reforestation and conservation measures will enhance waterfowl habitat improving conditions for recreation, duck hunting and bird watching.