Memphis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

News for the Media

New Madrid Boat Ramp Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Memphis District Published Dec. 14, 2023
WHAT: New Madrid Boat Ramp Ribbon Cutting Ceremony WHO: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Memphis District WHEN: Thursday, December 14 at 1:00 PM CT
USACE Vicksburg District announces Annual Arkabutla Lakes Bald Eagle Survey date

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg District Published Dec. 12, 2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Vicksburg District announces that Arkabutla Lake will host its annual Bald Eagle Survey on January 6 from 7:00-11:00 a.m. Participants will meet at the Arkabutla Lake Field Office located at 5500 Arkabutla Dam Rd, Hernando, MS 38632 at 7:00 a.m.
MVM to christen $25.5M Grader 1 on May 2nd

Memphis District Published April 28, 2023
The Memphis District is holding a Christening Ceremony, May 2 at 1:30 PM CT, to celebrate and welcome its new Bank Grading Unit, Grader 1, a $25.5 million Seatrax model constructed to replace the districts legacy model, a 1949 vintage Bucyrus-Erie barge-mounted dragline. Grader 1 is also the first and newest addition to the Regional Channel Improvement Fleet.
Memphis District retires legacy grader, replaces with new, faster, more efficient model

Memphis District Published April 13, 2023
The Memphis District officially welcomed a new, $25.5 million Bank Grading Unit (BGU), April 11, 2023, when it docked at its new home port at Ensley Engineer Yard in Memphis, Tennessee. Constructed in three years, the new BGU is replacing the district’s legacy bank grader, and with nearly 75 years of operations in the books, it’s safe to say the 1949 barge-mounted Bucyrus-Erie dragline model is ready for retirement.
Mississippi River Commission prepares for spring high-water inspection trip

Mississippi River Commission Published March 20, 2023
The Mississippi River Commission will conduct its annual spring high-water inspection trip on the Mississippi River, March 27- 31, 2023. The Commission will host public meetings in select towns along the Mississippi River, with commission members meeting with local partners, stakeholders, and residents. Members will listen to public concerns, ideas, and issues during each meeting.
Memphis District Corps of Engineers' Dredge Hurley completes record-breaking season

Memphis District Published March 2, 2023
The Memphis District's Dredge Hurley returned to its home port, Ensley Engineer Yard, in Memphis Harbor, on Jan. 13, 2023, after finishing a record-breaking 273-day season, which began Apr. 26, 2022. In eight and a half months, the 36-person crew dredged 14.5 million cubic yards of sediment, which is the most the Dredge Hurley has ever removed in a single season.
USACE seeks public comment on Hatchie-Loosahatchie restoration study

Memphis District Published Feb. 28, 2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Memphis District (CEMVM), and their non-Federal Sponsor, the Lower Mississippi River Conservation Committee (LMRCC), scheduled a hybrid in-person/virtual public meeting for its Draft Integrated Feasibility Report and Draft Environmental Assessment (DIFR-EA) of the Hatchie-Loosahatchie Mississippi River Ecosystem Restoration Study. The meeting will be 6 – 8 p.m., Mar. 6, 2023, at Ducks Unlimited Headquarters, One Waterfowl Way, Memphis.
Mississippi River Commission schedules high-water inspection trip

Memphis District Published Feb. 24, 2023
The Mississippi River Commission will conduct its annual high-water inspection trip on the Mississippi River, Mar. 27 - 31, 2023.
Memphis District releases Draft Feasibility Report, Environmental Assessment for Hatchie-Loosahatchie Restoration Study, requests public comment

Memphis District Published Feb. 10, 2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Memphis District (CEMVM) released a Draft Integrated Feasibility Report and Draft Environmental Assessment (DIFR-EA) for the Hatchie-Loosahatchie Mississippi River Ecosystem Restoration Study to the general public, Feb. 10, 2023. The general public, interested parties, and stakeholders are invited to comment on the DIFR-EA.
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to fund vital river ramp repair project

Memphis District Published Feb. 2, 2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District awarded Graylee Construction and Demolition from Ward, Arkansas, a contract to rehabilitate and repair the New Madrid City Front Boat Ramp located on the Mississippi River at approximately River Mile 889. The City of New Madrid, Missouri, and St. John's Levee and Drainage District are partners on this vital project.
USACE Memphis District prepares DIFR-EIS for Hatchie-Loosahatchie Restoration Study

Memphis District Published Nov. 10, 2022
A Notice of Intent (NOI) was published in the Federal Register on this matter Friday, Nov. 4, 2022. This opened the comment period, which will last until Dec. 5, 2022.
Memphis Power Team deploys to Alabama ahead of Hurricane Ian landfall

Memphis District Published Sept. 28, 2022
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Memphis District has deployed a 20-member Emergency Power Planning and Response Team to support the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Hurricane Ian response.
Hatchie-Loosahatchie Mississippi River Ecosystem Restoration Study public meetings scheduled

Memphis District Published Sept. 23, 2022
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and Non-Federal Sponsor, the Lower Mississippi River Conservation Committee (LMRCC), has scheduled public scoping meetings for the Hatchie-Loosahatchie Mississippi River Ecosystem Restoration Study.
DeSoto County Public Meeting

Memphis District Published May 26, 2022
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will host a public meeting to inform the public and to solicit comments regarding the release of the revised draft Integrated Feasibility Report and Environmental Impact Statement (DIFR-EIS) for the Memphis Metropolitan Stormwater-North DeSoto County Feasibility Study, DeSoto County, Mississippi.
DeSoto County Public Meeting

Memphis District Published June 22, 2021
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Memphis District invites the media, public, federal, state, and local agencies, Native American tribes, and other interested organizations, to participate in a public meeting to review and provide comments on the Draft Integrated Feasibility Report and Environmental Impact Study for the Memphis Metropolitan Stormwater Management Project: North DeSoto County, Mississippi.
Running Reelfoot Bayou Feasibility Cost Sharing Agreement Signing Ceremony

Memphis District Published June 22, 2021
The West Tennessee River Basin Authority and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District recently held a Feasibility Cost Sharing Agreement Signing Ceremony to initiate a cost shared feasibility study. The study aims to identify and evaluate alternatives and the preparation of a decision document that, as appropriate, recommends a coordinated and implementable solution for restoring aquatic and floodplain habitat along a 20-mile corridor from Reelfoot Lake and Lake Isom National Wildlife Refuge to the Obion River.
Memphis District awards $5.2M dredging contract

Memphis District Published June 9, 2021
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District awarded a harbor dredging contract in the amount of $5,238,035 to Great Lakes Dredge and Dock, LLC, May 28, 2021.
Final levee system project on horizon as MVM completes preliminary projects

Memphis District Published April 7, 2021
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District, in partnership with the Fulton County Board of Levee Commissioners (FCBLC), is nearing completion of two maintenance projects, the Island 8 Parcel 1 Relief Well Ditch Restoration Project and the Lake No. 9 Collector Ditch Erosion Repair Project, both located along the Mississippi River Mainline Levee south of Hickman, Kentucky. More importantly, after these projects are done, the district will be that much closer to executing the last and final project needed to finish the entire levee system.
Smith appointed new Memphis District Project Management Branch Chief

Memphis District Published April 5, 2021
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District recently selected Derrick Smith to be the new Chief of the Project Management Branch. Highlights from Smith’s many years of service and achievements make clear how he earned this respectable position.
Smith nominated for 2020 Program Manager of the Year Award

Memphis District Published March 29, 2021
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District recently nominated Program Manager Derrick Smith as the Program Manager of the Year. Every year the district selects an Army civilian program manager to recognize their outstanding contributions and support of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the regiment, including civil works, leadership, and achievements.
Stroupe nominated for 2020 Project Manager of the Year Award

Memphis District Published March 29, 2021
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District recently nominated Jairus Stroupe as the Project Manager of the Year. Every year the district selects an Army civilian engineer to recognize their outstanding contributions and support of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the regiment, including civil works, leadership, and local achievements.
Mississippi River Commission schedules high-water inspection trip

Mississippi River Commission Published March 15, 2021
The Mississippi River Commission will conduct its annual high-water inspection trip on the Mississippi River, April 12-16, 2021. Four public meetings have been scheduled aboard the Motor Vessel MISSISSIPPI in selected towns along the river. Commission members will meet with local partners, stakeholders and residents and hear their concerns, ideas and issues.
Mississippi River Commission schedules high-water inspection trip

Mississippi River Commission Published March 15, 2021
The Mississippi River Commission will conduct its annual high-water inspection trip on the Mississippi River, April 12-16, 2021. Four public meetings have been scheduled aboard the Motor Vessel MISSISSIPPI in selected towns along the river. Commission members will meet with local partners, stakeholders and residents and hear their concerns, ideas and issues.
Position Title: Supervisory Interdisciplinary Engineer

Memphis District Published Feb. 2, 2021
PUBLIC NOTICE FOR POSITIONS FILLED UNDER DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY (DHA) FOR: Certain Competitive Service Positions covered by Section 9905 Opening and Closing Dates: 02/02/2021 - 02/08/2021 Position Title: Supervisory Interdisciplinary Engineer Series/Grade: GS-0810-0830-0850-12
Northwest Tennessee Regional Port Authority and Corps to sign new Project Cooperation Agreement

Memphis District Published Sept. 30, 2020
WHAT: The Northwest Tennessee Regional Port Authority and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District will hold a Project Cooperation Agreement (PCA) Signing Ceremony. The new PCA removes both the Northwest Tennessee Harbor Project federal limit on financial obligations and the 50-year limitation. The PCA signing is the culmination of a successful joint effort to both improve the PCA and make the great partnership between the two agencies even greater. WHEN: Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. WHERE: Northwest Tennessee Regional Port Authority, 4480 Cates Landing Road, Tiptonville, TN 38079
DHA Job Announcement - Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanic

Memphis District Published Sept. 28, 2020
Opening and Closing Dates: 09/28 - 10/02
DHA Job Announcement - General Facilities and Equipment Specialist

Memphis District Published Sept. 28, 2020
Opening and Closing Dates: 09/28/2020 - 10/02/2020
DHA Job Announcement: Civil Engineer, GS-0810-07/09/11/12

Published Sept. 16, 2020
Opening and Closing Dates: 09/16/20 – 09/18/20
Operation Blue Roof sign-up for Hurricane Laura extended

Published Sept. 15, 2020
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is extending the deadline to apply for Operation Blue Roof to Sept. 30, 2020. The original application deadline was set to expire Sept. 21. Residents can sign up for the program online at www.usace.army.mil/BlueRoof or call toll free 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258).
Officials to break ground on DeSoto, Tunica County seepage remediation projects

Memphis District Published Aug. 21, 2020
WHAT: Groundbreaking ceremony for the Commerce, Mississippi, Seepage Remediation Project and Clack/Norfolk, Mississippi, Seepage Remediation Project. WHO: Desoto County and Tunica County Partners, Yazoo-Mississippi Delta Levee Board, Mississippi River Commission, and Memphis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. WHEN: Tuesday, August 25, 2020, at 4 p.m. WHERE: North of the intersection of Bailey Road and Levee Road. See the attached map and directions.
St. Francis River Basin Partners, Mississippi River Commission, and Corps of Engineers to break ground on seepage remediation projects

Memphis District Published Aug. 20, 2020
Groundbreaking ceremony for construction of multiple seepage remediation projects to include Below Senath, Missouri; Big Island, Arkansas; and Below Piggott/Below Hwy 90, Arkansas. The Below Senath Seepage Remediation project, in Dunklin County, Missouri, will reduce risk from the effects of under-seepage by performing drainage ditch work to change the flow of water into a more desirable pattern for the stability of the levee. Work began in May 2020, and the tentative completion date is October 2020. The local partner for the project is Levee District No. 4 of Dunklin County, Missouri, and the prime contractor is C&M; Contractors.
Corps of Engineers issues construction Notice to Proceed for COVID-19 Alternate Care Facility

Memphis District Published April 16, 2020
Working at the direction of the State of Tennessee and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Memphis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) issued a “Notice to Proceed” for the conversion of the former Commercial Appeal building today, located at 495 Union Ave. in Memphis to a COVID-19 Alternate Care Facility (ACF). The overall contract was awarded to AECOM Technical Services of Los Angeles, California.
Corps of Engineers lowers floodfight response level to Phase I in northern areas
Corps of Engineers begins Phase I floodfight
Corps of Engineers begins Phase I floodfight in the Confluence Areas
Davidson is the new Memphis District Deputy District Engineer for Programs and Project Management

Published May 14, 2019
Donny D. Davidson, Jr. is the new Memphis District deputy district engineer for programs and project management. He assumed his new role in April, after serving four and a half years as the Engineering and Construction Division chief.
Mississippi River Commission schedules high-water inspection trip

Published March 26, 2019
The Mississippi River Commission will conduct its annual high-water inspection trip on the Mississippi River, April 8-12, 2019.
Lower Mississippi River stages above normal

Published Nov. 16, 2018
As 2018 nears closure and the MVD begins planning for 2019, we remain vigilant in monitoring flood stages in the Mississippi River valley. Because of the current higher-than-average river stages, the lower valley will be more susceptible to large rain events throughout the winter. Residents with a vested interest in the Mississippi River valley are asked to monitor river stages over the next three to four months.
MEDIA ALERT: Port Commission, Corps of Engineers to cut ribbon marking completion of new flood protection features for Presidents Island industrial area

Published Sept. 14, 2018
What: Ribbon cutting ceremony to mark completion of 121 relief wells to protect the Frank C. Pidgeon Industrial Area on Presidents Island from Mississippi River flooding. When: Sept. 18, 2018 at 9 a.m.
Reeder sworn in as Mississippi River Commission member

Published July 11, 2018
VICKSBURG, MISS. – James A. Reeder was sworn in as a member of the Mississippi River Commission at the commission’s headquarters in Vicksburg, Mississippi, July 11. Mississippi River Commission President Maj. Gen. Richard Kaiser administered the oath of office during Reeder’s visit.
New Caruthersville office Area Engineer

Published Nov. 8, 2017
Daimon McNew is the new Area Engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District’s Caruthersville, Mo. Area Office.
Corps of Engineers to hold Change of Command ceremony
Corps of Engineers, West Tennessee River Basin Authority releases Cypress Creek Study

Published Jan. 20, 2016
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Jan. 20, 2016 – In partnership with the West Tennessee River Basin Authority, the Memphis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) today issued a notice of availability of the draft Cypress Creek Ecosystem Restoration Feasibility Study With Integrated Environmental Assessment. USACE is now soliciting comments and information to improve this report, and inform decision-makers regarding public opinions and local issues.
Corps of Engineers lowers floodfight response to Phase I in all active areas

Published Jan. 13, 2016
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Jan. 13, 2016 – With river stages falling in all locations, the Memphis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has lowered its floodfighting response activation level to Phase I in all active areas.
Corps of Engineers wages Phase II floodfight efforts in eastern Arkansas and northwestern Mississippi

Published Jan. 9, 2016
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Jan. 9, 2016 – The Memphis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently in a Phase II floodfight due to high river stages on the Mississippi River. The area of current or possible flooding is located in the Helena, Ark., and Clarksdale, Miss., Areas on the Lower Mississippi River. Communities that may be affected include Tunica, Friars Point, Rosedale and other communities near the river in Mississippi, and Helena/West Helena, Melwood, and other riverside communities in Arkansas.
Corps of Engineers begins Phase II floodfight efforts in Memphis, West Memphis Areas

Published Jan. 5, 2016
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Jan. 5, 2016 – The Memphis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) began Phase II floodfighting this morning due to high river stages on the Mississippi River. The area of current or possible flooding is located in the Memphis, Tenn., and West Memphis, Ark., Areas on the Lower Mississippi River.
Corps of Engineers to begin Phase II floodfight efforts

Published Dec. 30, 2015
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Dec. 30, 2015 – The Memphis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) initiated Phase II floodfighting this morning due to high river stages on the Mississippi and St. Francis Rivers. The area of current or possible flooding is located in the northern portion of the Memphis District in the Charleston (Missouri) Area, Reelfoot-Obion (Kentucky) Area, Cairo (Illinois) Area on the Lower Mississippi River and the Upper St. Francis Area on the St. Francis River. The lands likely to be affected by the forecasted high water on the Lower Mississippi River are located in and around the communities of Cairo, Ill., Cape Girardeau, New Madrid and Scott City, Mo., Wickliffe, Ky., and Tiptonville, Tenn. On the St. Francis River the areas of Wappapello and Fisk, Mo., are likely to be affected.
Corps of Engineers requests public comment on draft Cache River Watershed Management Plan

Published July 7, 2015
MEMPHIS, Tenn., July 7, 2015 – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Memphis District, requests comments from the public on a draft Cache River Watershed Management Plan.
Corps of Engineers ends Phase II floodfight – continues to monitor high water

Published June 26, 2015
MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 26, 2015 – The Memphis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) ended its Phase II floodfight yesterday afternoon as a result of steadily falling river stages on the Upper Mississippi River.
Corps of Engineers increases vigilance with Phase II floodfight efforts

Published June 22, 2015
MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 22, 2015 – The Memphis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) initiated Phase II floodfighting this morning due to continuing high river stages on the Upper Mississippi River. The area of current or possible flooding is located in the northern portion of the Memphis District in the Charleston (Missouri) and Cairo (Illinois) Sectors.
Corps of Engineers begins Phase I floodfight in Charleston and Cairo Sectors

Published June 19, 2015
MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 19, 2015 – The Memphis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) initiated Phase I floodfighting this morning due to high river stages on the Upper Mississippi River. The area of current or possible flooding is located in the northern portion of the Memphis District in the Charleston (Missouri) and Cairo (Illinois) Sectors. The lands likely to be affected by the forecasted high water are located in and around the communities of Cape Girardeau, Scott City, Chaffee and Commerce, Mo. Floodfight personnel will also be active in the community of Cairo, Ill., due to the high water on the Mississippi River. The Ohio River is currently below floodfight activation stages but will rise above flood stage.
Corps of Engineers invites public aboard largest diesel towboat on Mississippi River

Published March 13, 2015
MEMPHIS, Tenn., March 13, 2015 – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District will offer the public two opportunities to tour the largest diesel towboat operating on the Mississippi River. The tours are offered to the public at no cost.
Wider channel provides unrestricted daytime northbound transit at Fair Landing

Published Nov. 12, 2014
Fair Landing, Arkansas, Nov. 12, 2014 – Northbound commerce with as many as 49 barges moved through the restricted portion of the river at Fair Landing during daylight hours. This helps speed the clearing of the daily queue and reduces the wait time for southbound vessels. Work is also proceeding well in the narrowest reach of the restricted area and the Corps expects normal, unrestricted one-way traffic to resume after Monday, November 17, when the mat sinking unit completes its work in the narrow section and moves to a wider section of Fair Landing.
River repairs will help commerce on the Mississippi River system

Published Nov. 11, 2014
Fair Landing, Arkansas, Nov. 10, 2014 – River repairs to severe bank scours along the Mississippi River at Fair Landing will lead to enduring improvements to the vital commercial artery. The narrow bend along this reach of the river now passes one-way traffic under normal conditions, the ongoing repairs and future improvement work will allow two-way traffic to pass.
Regular dialogue with the navigation industry continues to keep commerce moving on the Mississippi River system

Published Nov. 9, 2014
Fair Landing, Arkansas, Nov. 9, 2014 -- Near constant communication between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the navigation industry and the U.S. Coast Guard is allowing commercial barge traffic to safely pass a restricted section of the Lower Mississippi River (Miles 632 – 635) near Fair Landing, Arkansas, and 30 miles south of Helena, Arkansas, with a less than10-hour daily delay.

Managing the Mississippi is the Memphis District Mission

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Our Mission

Around the Memphis District

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Mississippi Valley Division Commander Brig. Gen. Kimberly Peeples visited the Memphis District during the last week of November.

Her time at the district included meeting with district leadership, took a Mississippi River channel improvement tour, and visited with Ensley Engineer Yard (EEY) district workers.

The general also met with White River Irrigation District administration and board members while touring the district's Bayou Meto and Grand Prairie groundwater project sites.

IN THE PHOTOS, before and after photos of the West Basin Scour Repairs Phase 3 Construction Project. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District successfully completed a construction project in partnership with the Little River Drainage District in Bollinger County, Missouri. Construction started on July 15, 2020, and was completed six months ahead of schedule on Jan. 7, 2021.

IN THE PHOTO, Memphis District Commander Col. Zachary Miller, District Partners, and other district leadership were briefed on the details of the St. Francis bridge (CR736) project at the exact site where the construction took place. Afterward, the group held a ribbon-cutting ceremony (in the photo), symbolizing the victory and celebration of completing yet another significant project. (USACE photo by Jessica Haas)

IN THE PHOTO, Memphis District Commander Col. Zachary Miller and other district leadership were briefed on the details of the St. Francis bridge (CR736) project at the exact site where the construction took place. Afterward, the group held a ribbon-cutting ceremony (in the photo), symbolizing the victory and celebration of completing yet another significant project. (USACE photo by Vance Harris)

IN THE PHOTOS, Project Manager Mark Mazzone briefs Memphis District Commander Col. Zachary Miller and other district leadership on the details of the Hopefield project at the exact site where the armoring took place. Afterward, the group walked down to the riverbank to cut the ribbon, symbolizing the victory and celebration of completing yet another significant project. (USACE photos by Jessica Haas)

IN THE PHOTO, Memphis District Commander Col. Zachary Miller and other district leaders hosted the Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Army (Civil Works), Mr. Vance Stewart, and USACE's Deputy Commanding General for Civil and Emergency Operations, Maj. Gen. William (Butch) H. Graham, on March 11, 2021. During his tour, Graham stopped by the Grand Prairie Project to learn more about conserving groundwater resources throughout the region and is briefed by subject matter experts on the project and what is needed to complete the project, preserve groundwater, and save life, land and agriculture for many more years to come. (USACE Photo by Vance Harris)

IN THE PHOTO, a crane removes barrels off the Dredge Hurley, which is now docked at Ensley Engineer Yard for some much-needed repairs after another long but successful season of dredging the Mississippi River. Adrian Pirani, Dredge Hurley master, said the crew successfully removed a little more than 8 million cubic yards of sediment this season. The season was shorter than last year due to the Hurley needing maintenance done, which required the Hurley be placed on a larger dry dock down south for a few months earlier this year. (USACE photos by Jessica Haas)

IN THE PHOTO, anchors used to keep the Dredge Hurley in place, now not needed as the Hurley is now docked at Ensley Engineer Yard after another long but successful season of dredging the Mississippi River. Adrian Pirani, Dredge Hurley master, said the crew successfully removed a little more than 8 million cubic yards of sediment this season. The season was shorter than last year due to the Hurley needing maintenance done, which required the Hurley be placed on a larger dry dock down south for a few months earlier this year. (USACE photos by Jessica Haas)

IN THE PHOTO, the Dredge Hurley is now docked at Ensley Engineer Yard after another long but successful season of dredging the Mississippi River. Adrian Pirani, Dredge Hurley master, said the crew successfully removed a little more than 8 million cubic yards of sediment this season. The season was shorter than last year due to the Hurley needing maintenance done, which required the Hurley be placed on a larger dry dock down south for a few months earlier this year. (USACE photos by Jessica Haas)

IN THE PHOTOS, Memphis District employees gather for a memorial earlier today at the Clifford-Davis Odell Horton Federal Building to honor and remember seven teammates, who to many of us were family, that we unfortunately lost over the last year. All seven have been and will be dearly missed. The District Commander, Corps Chaplain, Physical Support Branch Chief Lawrence “LT” Thomas, and Operations Division Chief Russell Davis III spoke words of solace and encouragement during this time where we are all experiencing a rollercoaster ride of emotions. (USACE photos by Jessica Haas)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers contractors in Lake Charles, Louisiana, installed reinforced plastic sheeting today, Sept. 5, for the first home to benefit from Operation Blue Roof since Hurricane Laura. The program, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency, reduces further damage to property until permanent repairs can be made. This is a free service to homeowners. Parties affected by Hurricane Laura are encouraged to submit a Right-of-Entry application. To learn more about Operation Blue Roof and to apply, visit: https://www.usace.army.mil/BlueRoof/ (USACE Photos by Jessica Haas)

IN THE PHOTO, is a sample of the erosion the project will address.

IN THE PHOTO, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers contractors install a generator at one of several facilities requesting temporary power after Hurricane Laura damaged their installation. The temporary power mission is one of the Corps' primary missions in supporting Louisiana's recovery from Hurricane Laura. (Courtesy photo)

IN THE PHOTOS, Dredge Hurley Ship Keeper Curtis Williams a.k.a. “Lil Wolf” as a child all the way up to his time working on the dredges Burgess and Hurley.

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Featuring our People, Projects

Charting the Course | USACE DPM Forum Top 6

By By Deputy District Engineer for Programs and Project Management Donny Davidson Memphis District Published Dec. 7, 2023
All 43 of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Deputy District Engineers for Programs and Project Management (DPM) met in San Antonio, Texas, on October 20 for a two-day forum coined "The DPM Forum Top 6." DPMs gather twice yearly to share best practices, tackle the past year's challenges, and develop strategies that best move the organization ahead. Several representatives from USACE Headquarters, including the 55th Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Lt. Gen. Scott Spellmon spoke to the group about all the incredible work the Corps is doing nationwide. The commander also touched on expressing capabilities, work acceptance, design maturity, and telling our story.
New Bank Grading Unit “Grader 1” | Begins season with focus on calibration, training

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Aug. 14, 2023
Memphis District Commander Col. Brian Sawser, Deputy District Engineer for Programs and Project Management Donny Davidson, Operations Division Chief Andrea Williams, Channel Improvement Project Manager Zach Cook, and Regional Channel Improvement Coordinator Jake Storz, traveled to Mhoon Bend, Mississippi, on July 12, to visit the Memphis District Bank Grading Unit team and observe the new bank grader, Grader 1, in action for the first time since its arrival and christening earlier this year. The district’s Bank Grading Unit (BGU) is the second field activity of Revetment Operations following the Clearing and Snagging Unit. It grades the banks of the Mississippi River to the proposed design slopes to support the sinking of Articulated Concrete Mattress (ACM) performed by the Vicksburg District’s Mat Sinking Unit.
Dike restoration project minimizes excessive dredging, supports river

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 16, 2023
The Memphis District completes dozens of projects annually to ensure a safe and reliable waterway, most recently partnering with Commercial Towing Interests, represented by the Lower Mississippi River Committee (LOMRC), to carry out a dike construction and restoration project in New Madrid, Missouri.
New Orleans to Venice by way of Memphis

By Public Affairs Specialist Ben Alumbaugh Memphis District Published May 31, 2023
In line with USACE’s top priority, public safety, the Memphis District is part of a huge undertaking to design, procure, and construct hurricane and storm risk reduction features and ensure the Mississippi River remains viable from New Orleans to Venice, Louisiana.
Corps of Engineers officially launched new bank grader, retires 75-year-old legacy

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 31, 2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District officially launched its new, $25.5 million Bank Grading Unit (BGU), “Grader 1”, with a christening ceremony held on the afternoon of May 2 at a boat ramp located in downtown Memphis, Tennessee. Event attendees included Mississippi Valley Division Commander Maj. Gen. Diana Holland, Memphis District Commander Col. Brian Sawser, Grader 1's project delivery team and project partners, and several members from the Memphis District Employee and Retiree Communities. Vessel christenings are widely considered an important part of nautical culture with many associated customs practiced for centuries now. While variations do exist, the overall purpose is to request protection for the vessel and crew while navigating the waterways of the world.
Congrats to February Employee of the Month, Joey Cabay!

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 30, 2023
Congratulations to Metals Unit Welder/Fitter Leaderman, Mr. Joey Cabay, on his Employee of the Month recognition for the month of February! On top of the responsibilities handled by a Welder, Metal Worker, and Fitter, Cabay regularly takes on much more than what is asked of him.
Congrats to March Employee of the Month, Brian Schneider!

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 25, 2023
Congratulations to March Employee of the Month, Outreach Coordinator Brian Schneider!
Deputy Forum meets to develop forward-moving strategies for USACE

By Memphis District Programs and Project Management Deputy District Engineer Donny Davidson Memphis District Published May 18, 2023
Programs and Project Management Deputy District Engineers (DPM) from across the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, gathered in Charleston, South Carolina, for a two-day Deputy Forum on April 26. Twice a year, all 43 USACE DPMs meet in person to tackle challenges, share best practices, and seek opportunities to develop forward moving strategies for the organization.
Ratliff named Memphis District January Employee of the Month

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 15, 2023
Congratulations to Mr. Jack Ratliff on his recent selection as January 2023 Employee of the Month. Nominated by three separate district employees/offices, Ratliff is ultimately commended for embracing his new position as the Administrative Contracting Officer (ACO) of the Groundwater Security Office since rejoining the Memphis District from the Little Rock District approximately four months ago.
A look back: Berry's 33 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 11, 2023
Knowledgeable. Caring. An asset. Kindhearted. Selfless. Friend. Guru. A bright light. Trustworthy. These are words chosen to describe colleague, friend, and recently retired Program Assistant, Mr. Jeff Berry. Even with solid attempts made at convincing him to stay, Berry celebrated his retirement of 33 years of federal service in a ceremony surrounded by friends, family, and colleagues.
Memphis District revetment units breaks record, longest season in 20 years

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 10, 2023
Another record-breaking season is in the books after the Memphis District’s Revetment Units returned home mid-March of 2023, making it one of the longest seasons had in 20 years.
Memphis-area dike construction complete, commercial towing industry to benefit immediately, long-term

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 17, 2023
The Memphis District recently completed dike construction and maintenance at Coahoma-Armstrong near Memphis, Tennessee (MS River Mile 719), March 23, 2023. The project completion will result in long-term improvement of the navigation channel crossing in this reach of the river, which has historically been a low water problem spot for the commercial towing industry. The project was awarded as a task order through an existing Mississippi River Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC) using a combination of Disaster Relief Supplemental Act of 2022 (DRSAA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding.
Contract awarded for Mississippi River dike construction near Helena, Arkansas

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 17, 2023
Congratulations to the Memphis District for reaching a major project milestone on March 8, 2023, and for awarding a task order for dike construction at Below Walnut Bend and Shoofly Bar near Helena, Arkansas. The project delivery team awarded the task order via the Mississippi River Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC), with $6,055,440 going to contractor Pine Bluff Sand and Gravel Company from Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Contract funding came from the Disaster Relief Supplemental Act of 2022 (DRSAA) provided by Congress in late 2021. “This work is critical to helping maintain the navigation channel crossing in this reach of the river and we are thankful for the continued investment being made by Congress in our river infrastructure,” Memphis District Channel Improvement Project Manager Zach Cook said.
Memphis District retires a legacy, replaces with faster, better, brighter model

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 13, 2023
The Memphis District officially welcomed a new, $25.5 million Bank Grading Unit (BGU), April 11, 2023, when it docked at its new home port at Ensley Engineer Yard in Memphis, Tennessee. Constructed in three years, the new BGU is replacing the district’s legacy bank grader, and with nearly 75 years of operations in the books, it’s safe to say the 1949 barge-mounted Bucyrus-Erie dragline model is ready for retirement.
Memphis District to host Industry Day May 23rd

Memphis District Published April 5, 2023
Interested in doing business with the Federal Government? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District is hosting an Industry Day on May 23rd, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Renasant Convention Center, 255 North Main Street, Memphis.
Getting to know the Memphis District

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 13, 2023
Ever wondered what the people working behind the scenes at the Memphis District Corps of Engineers are like? Have you wanted to know what types of jobs we offered and what those roles looked like? Or maybe you wondered what an engineer liked most about their job with the Corps of Engineers.
Memphis District’s annual Mississippi River Channel Improvement meeting a success

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 9, 2023
Members of the Regional Channel Improvement (RCI) Team met in New Orleans, Louisiana, for their annual Mississippi River Channel Improvement meeting, Feb. 7 – 8, 2023 to discuss new channel improvement projects and other current channel improvement issues.
Mississippi Valley Division Virtual Recruitment Event

Mississippi Valley Division Published Feb. 23, 2023
WHO: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Mississippi Valley Division WHAT: Mississippi Valley Division Virtual Recruitment Event WHEN: Pre-registration opens on 7 Feb 23 and closes on 27 Feb 23. Please see the ‘REQUIRED DOCUMENTS’ section below. Event dates are 7-8 March 23, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CT). We encourage interested candidates to register and submit resumes early. Interviews will be conducted and job offers will be extended during the event. WHY: The mission of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the Mississippi Valley is to serve the region by providing vital public engineering services and stewardship of water resource infrastructure, partnering in peace and war, to strengthen our nation’s security, energize the economy and reduce risks from disasters. The mission is accomplished by two distinct, complementary organizations -- the Mississippi Valley Division and the Mississippi River Commission.
Creating the Future

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 19, 2023
Engineers Week is February 19 - 25, 2023 this year. Engineer Week is a celebration that takes place on the third week of February annually because it coincides with President George Washington’s birthday. This is significant, since Washington is considered our Nation’s first engineer, and he also appointed the first engineer officers to the U.S. Army on June 16, 1775.
Memphis District's Dredge Hurley returns home ending most productive, longest season on record

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 17, 2023
The Memphis District’s Dredge Hurley returned to its home port, Ensley Engineer Yard in Memphis Harbor on Jan. 13, 2023, after finishing a record-breaking 273-day season, which began Apr. 26, 2022. In those eight and a half months, the 36-person crew dredged 14.5 million cubic yards of material, which is the most the Dredge Hurley has ever removed in a single season.
Memphis District celebrates Kellinsky's retirement

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 13, 2023
"The best part of my job here at the Memphis District was building things for people," Memphis District Carpenter Steve Kellinsky said. "I loved being a carpenter and I loved the Army, so I always looked at it like getting paid to play in a billion-dollar playground." After dedicating more than seven years of service to the Memphis District, 11 to the federal government, and six to the U.S. Army, Steve Kellinsky is celebrating his recent retirement from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District as a carpenter.
Evans selected as HQ Levee Safety Endowed Chair

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 9, 2023
Congratulations to Ashley Evans on her selection for a six-month detail as a Levee Safety Endowed Chair. The position is with the Headquarters Dam and Levee Safety Branch in Washington D.C.
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds awarded for vital New Madrid boat ramp repairs

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 2, 2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District awarded Graylee Construction and Demolition from Ward, Arkansas, a contract to rehabilitate and repair the New Madrid City Front Boat Ramp located on the Mississippi River at approximate River Mile 889. The city of New Madrid, Missouri, and St. John's Levee and Drainage District are partners on this vital project.
Flood risk management star recognition

By Kenneth Williams Memphis District Published Jan. 30, 2023
Earlier this week, the Memphis District hosted a Flood Risk Management exercise involving multiple federal organizations including the Mississippi Valley Division. Mississippi Valley Division Commander Maj. Gen. Diana Holland (far left) recognized (from left to right) Memphis District Emergency Manager Kandi Waller, Hydraulics & Hydrology Branch Chief Mike Clay, and Captain Sean Tedtaotao for their superb planning and execution of the exercise. Memphis District Commander Col. Brian Sawser (far right) joined in to congratulate his team.
Public Affairs Specialist named Memphis District Employee of the Month

By Kenneth Williams Memphis District Published Jan. 30, 2023
With December’s Employee of the Month selection, the script is sort of flipped with the “Recognizer-in-Chief” being recognized! Congratulations to Jessica Haas on her well-earned recognition as Memphis District’s Employee of the Month for December 2022!
Dredge Hurley legend retires after 33 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 26, 2023
Curtis Williams, also known by many as 'Lil Wolf', recently celebrated his retirement from the Memphis District after 33 years of federal service. Williams spent most of his career as Dredge Hurley's Shipkeeper, and according to his colleagues, he was one of the best to ever step foot on the vessel, or any vessel for that matter.
Memphis District employee helps rescue family of four

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 23, 2023
Mr. Shaun Bass, a Construction Control Inspector from the Memphis District's Caruthersville Area Office, witnessed a horrific car accident occur right in front of him while travelling for work in July of 2022. The accident involved a mother and her three children driving head on into a bridge embankment. He was able to call 911 and tend to the mother before the first ambulance arrived. Once the first ambulance was onsite, he directed traffic around the accident while assisting paramedics with the children as needed. Amazingly, the mother and three children survived, yet arguably, if it were not for Bass and the ambulance personnel, this story may have had a much more tragic conclusion. This is his recollection of that day's events.
$5.3M BIL-funded revetment project complete ahead of schedule

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 23, 2023
A Memphis District Project Delivery Team recently completed a $5.3M Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL)-funded revetment project in Bauxippi-Wyanoke, Arkansas. Work began in November last year when historic low water conditions and tow restrictions delayed much of the river industry’s transportation of goods. Despite these less-than-stellar conditions, the team completed construction ahead of schedule, finishing all work on Dec. 16, 2022.
Thank You, Mr. Jeff Berry!

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 6, 2023
The holidays weren’t the only reason the district celebrated the end of 2022. Additionally, Memphis District Commander Col. Brian Sawser recognized, thanked, and presented a Commander’s Coin and a Length of Service Certificate to our Program Assistant Jeff Berry for his incredible 30+ years of federal service. Please help us say congratulations and thank you to Mr. Jeff Berry! We value and appreciate all you’ve done and continue to do for the District, the Mississippi Valley Division, and this great Nation! People like you are why the Memphis District Team is the best team there is, and we are lucky to have you!
LDP grads on program: Making connections, overcoming obstacles, coming out stronger

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 5, 2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District invests in employees and develops their leadership skills by utilizing the Leadership Development Program (LDP). LDP graduates are said to benefit from an expanded network of mentors, elevated promotion potential, and a greater understanding of the enterprise and district (to name a few). Having more mentors and a better chance at promotion is nice, but according to the class of 2022, these perks are barely a fraction of what participants can get out of this yearlong program.
Employee of the Month: Congrats, Tommy!

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Dec. 14, 2022
Congratulations to Machinist Tommy Reed on his selection as the November Memphis District Employee of the Month!
Col. Sawser visits Memphis District Revetment team in Louisiana

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Dec. 8, 2022
On Dec. 7, 2022, Memphis District Commander Col. Brian Sawser made the trip down to St. Francisville, Louisiana, to visit the Memphis District Revetment Team at their current project site. The commander spent the day getting a firsthand look at what this talented crew does on a daily basis, getting a better understanding of exactly just how important this team is to executing the Memphis District mission.
Memphis District completes $6M in BIL-funded Revetment Repairs

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Dec. 1, 2022
Congratulations to the Memphis District for recently completing a $6M Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL)-funded project at Below Knowlton, Arkansas. “Work to complete revetment stone repairs began on Sep. 27, 2022,” Project Manager Zach Cook said. “Work was then completed ahead of the required completion date on Nov. 8, 2022, despite record low water conditions and stone delivery delays due to tow restrictions.”
Notice of Availability of the Interim Draft of the National Ordinary High Water Mark Field Delineation Manual for Rivers and Streams

US Environmental Protection Agency Published Dec. 1, 2022
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) jointly announce the availability of the Interim Draft of the National Ordinary High Water Mark Field Delineation Manual for Rivers and Streams (National OHWM Manual) and are soliciting public comments on this Interim Draft.
Employee of the Month: Congrats, Vickie!

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Nov. 17, 2022
Congratulations to Operations Project Manager Vickie Watson on her selection as Memphis District Employee of the Month!
MVM celebrates completed Sherard Seepage Remediation

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Nov. 15, 2022
Memphis District Commander Col. Brian Sawser, district leadership, project delivery team members, and Project Partner Yazoo Mississippi Delta Levee Board, gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony today, Nov. 15, 2022, to celebrate the completed Sherard Seepage Remediation Construction Project.
Memphis District Commander meets w/West TN River Basin Authority

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Nov. 15, 2022
On Nov. 8, Memphis District Commander Col. Brian Sawser and district project managers met with the West Tennessee River Basin Authority at Lone Oak Farms in Hardeman County, Tennessee. The Memphis District and the Basin Authority are partnering on a variety of projects in West Tennessee, including Running Reelfoot Bayou, Cypress Creek, and Piney Creek.
Piney Creek: Feasibility study complete, construction on horizon

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Nov. 3, 2022
The Memphis District recently finalized the feasibility study phase of the Piney Creek Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Project. The study, conducted in accordance with Section 206 of the Water Resources Development Act of 1996, identified and evaluated alternatives in a decision document that recommended a coordinated and implementable solution for restoring aquatic ecosystem of Piney Creek.
Celebrating value-added projects, district professionals, partners

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Oct. 19, 2022
Memphis District Deputy Commander, Lt. Col. Robert Green, district leadership, project delivery team members, and district partners celebrated the completion of three district projects in Missouri and Arkansas on Sept. 29, 2022.
Congrats and Thank You, Joanna!

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Oct. 11, 2022
Permit Manager Joanna Neu identified a need to strengthen site visit accountability procedures. After getting the Regulatory Team's buy-in, she followed through with formally instructing the staff on the newly created accountability processes. The regulatory team has been accident free for the past five fiscal years, and with Joanna's leadership, they're on target for another year free of any safety incidents, making their office accident-free for a total of six years.
Congratulations, Zuzana!

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Oct. 6, 2022
Congrats to Dr. Zuzana Chovanec on her recent recognition and receiving of a Civilian Service Commendation Medal! She was commended for delivering exceptional results as the Memphis District’s Regulatory Archaeologist for the authorization of a Department of the Army permit for the Ford Motor Company’s Blue Oval City industrial development in Haywood County, Tennessee.
Memphis District Trailblazers: Leading with style, humility, to make change

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 26, 2022
All Memphis District leaders are exceptional, but these women set the standard. Perhaps it's because their leadership styles are relationship-based, or maybe it's their strength and resiliency. It could also be that when they're wrong, they willingly admit it and do so gracefully. All these traits are fantastic, but their vested interest in employees sets them over the top because leadership is about taking care of people, and that’s what these leaders do every single day. In this second article of the series, Operations Division Chief Andrea Williams and District Counsel Suzy Weil discuss their leadership styles, benefits of women in leadership, and resiliency in difficult times.
$6.8M awarded for dike construction, river navigation improvements

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 23, 2022
Luhr Bros., Inc. of Columbia, Illinois, was awarded a construction contract on Sept. 9 from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Memphis District, to perform dike construction and maintenance along the Mississippi River near Memphis, Tennessee.
Congrats to Employee of the Month, Samantha Harper!!

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 19, 2022
When life gives you Monday, the Memphis District gives you motivation. How? Because MVM employees know how to rock it like no one else. Take for example the district's latest Employee of the Month, Samantha Harper. During the month of August, District Commander Col. Brian Sawser had the opportunity to meet with our Grand Prairie and Bayou Meto project sponsors to get a firsthand look at all the work that’s been done thus far.
Big Island Seepage Remediation Project substantially complete

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 15, 2022
Congratulations to the Memphis District for completing a seepage remediation construction project on July 16, 2022. This much-needed project reduced seepage along the St. Francis River levee. Seepage remediation berms help prevent water from passing under levees, which can later lead to sand boils and threaten the overall integrity of the flood protection system.
Contract awarded, $6 million IIJA funds towards addt'l Miss River revetment repairs

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 9, 2022
The Memphis District recently awarded a contract, Aug. 10, to perform revetment stone repairs at Below Knowlton, near Crumrod, Arkansas, (River Mile 619). Through this contract, the Corps will partner with Commercial Towing Interests, represented by the Lower Mississippi River Committee (LOMRC), to complete a $6,084,400 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)-funded project.
$11.8 million River Contract awarded, need for repetitive dredging decreased

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 9, 2022
The Memphis District awarded a contract to perform dike construction and maintenance at Donaldson Point, near New Madrid, Missouri (River Mile 903), Aug. 24, 2022. The Corps is partnering with Commercial Towing Interests, represented by the Lower Mississippi River Committee (LOMRC), to execute this $11,809,760 funded project. “This work is needed in this reach of the river due to continued navigation concerns raised by towboat pilots during recent low water years," said Project Manager Zach Cook. "This area has also required repetitive dredging over the past few years as well.” The funds provided for the work are a combination of Disaster Relief Supplemental Act of 2022 (DRSAA) and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) money allocated by Congress earlier this year.
Memphis District’s first IIJA-funded project complete

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 8, 2022
The Memphis District recently finished the first Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funded construction project on the Mississippi River near Caruthersville, Missouri. The Corps partnered with the Lower Mississippi River Committee (LOMRC) and commercial towing industry to complete the $1.15 million revetment maintenance project at Little Cypress near Mississippi River Mile 863. “Work consisted of placing approximately 43 thousand tons of “Graded Stone C (400 pound maximum stone size)” to repair seven riverbank failures along an approximate 4-mile reach of the existing revetted riverbank,” Project Manager Zach Cook added. “Work started on August 13 and was completed in two weeks."
$The Memphis District's Revetment Branch and Metals Units recently finalized a flapgate repair on what’s called the “Fritz Landing Culvert” in Lake County, Tennessee, in August 2022. “In 2021, the flapgate on the river side end of one of the culverts became loose, fractured, and fell off,” Project Manager Mark Mazzone said. “The flapgates ensure that flood water cannot back up through the culverts. They also provide the actual protection against flooding through culvert openings in the levee.” To repair the flapgates, construction involved building temporary cofferdams, pumping standing water to access the end of the culvert, fabrication and installation of temporary structures, and fabrication/installation of a replacement collar and supporting structure. (Courtesy photo)$

Teamwork protects land, “helps ensure Mississippi River does not try to change course”

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 8, 2022
The Memphis District's Revetment Branch and Metals Units recently finalized a flapgate repair on what’s called the “Fritz Landing Culvert” in Lake County, Tennessee, in August 2022. Their hard work and collaboration will undoubtedly result in the extended protection of almost 7 thousand acres of land. Additionally, this project will contribute to decreasing the Mississippi River’s meandering ways, and thus safeguard many surrounding localities for many, many years to come.
An introduction to the Memphis District ‘firsts’

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Aug. 29, 2022
The Memphis District is making history by doing one of the things it does best: taking care of people. It does this by making sure its employees are given opportunities, women, and men alike, to grow and flourish in their careers. Given Women’s Equality Day was Aug. 26, the Memphis District is celebrating this group of ‘firsts’ with the series, “Memphis District Trailblazers”. These notable women leading our district include Engineering and Construction Division Chief Elizabeth Burks, District Chief of Contracting Priscilla Sweeney, Readiness and Contingency Operations (RCO) / Emergency Management (EM) Chief Kandi Waller, District Counsel Suzy Weil, Operations Division Chief Andrea Williams, and Resource Management Division Chief Voncile Williams.
Lead Realty Specialist Joshua A. Neisen receives Level I Real Estate Contracting Officers Delegation of Authority

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Aug. 18, 2022
Congratulations to Lead Realty Specialist Joshua A. Neisen as he receives his Level I Real Estate Contracting Officers Delegation of Authority. Delegating this authority, Real Estate Division Chief John T. Wilburn issued a memorandum stating, "I hereby delegate to Mr. Joshua Neisen, Lead Realty Specialist, Memphis District, Mississippi Valley Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Real Estate Contracting Officer authority within the limits established by this warrant and certificate of appointment to execute real estate contracts, deeds, and related documents to acquire, manage, out-grant, and dispose of real property and interests therein, including related personal property, for both military and civil works real property (under authorities granted to the Secretary of the Army by applicable sections of Title 10, Title 16, Title 30, Title 33, and Title 40, United States Code). This delegation serves as an interim measure to meet current mission requirements of the Memphis District Real Estate office until such time that the Real Estate office may be re-organized with branch chief positions to serve as Realty Officers." Additionally, the Real Estate Branch extended its appreciation to Mr. Donald Balch (MVD Chief of Real Estate) for his continued support to the Memphis District Real Estate Program.
Seepage remediation project to protect agriculture, Mississippi communities

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Aug. 8, 2022
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District recently awarded a construction contract for a Seepage Remediation Project in Coahoma County, Sherard, Mississippi. The project will be accomplished in partnership with the Yazoo-Mississippi Delta Levee Board of Mississippi and will address four miles of the Yazoo-Delta Levee system’s System 21 – Segment 26.
Congratulations, Danny Ward on your promotion!!

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published July 27, 2022
Please join us in congratulating Mr. Danny Ward on his promotion to the role of Project Management Branch Chief! Danny’s career with the Corps began after working with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation for a year, and after graduating with a Master of Science degree from Arkansas State University. And while his career with the Corps began more than 20 years ago, Danny’s interest in the field is something that’s been present for as long as he can remember. “I have been fascinated with all things water my entire life,” he said. “I naturally gravitated to pursuing an education and a career that would bring me close to water.”
Relief wells rehabbed, MR&T efficacy ensured

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published July 19, 2022
A Memphis District Project Delivery Team recently completed work to rehabilitate 84 existing relief wells in Crittenden County, Arkansas. “Relief wells significantly reduce the likelihood of a levee breach during high water events,” Project Manager Mark Mazzone said. “Projects like this maintain and rehabilitate relief wells, and directly impact relief well performance and levee protection.”
Relief well installation project substantially complete

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published July 12, 2022
A Memphis District Project Delivery Team recently completed work to construct 25 new relief wells in Scott County, Missouri. To execute the project, a contract for $1,630,303.15 was awarded to VuCon, LLC., in August 2018. The contract was administered by the Memphis District’s Caruthersville Area Office, and the job was declared substantially complete June 24, 2022.
A look back: Don Davenport’s 40 years of Service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published July 11, 2022
After 40 years of federal service working as an engineer with the Memphis District, Mr. Don Davenport is trying out another way of life: retirement. Congratulations to Mr. Davenport on concluding an extraordinary career – one with too many milestones to name, and several friendships made that are sure to last a lifetime.
Keeping the river open for business, dredging contract awarded

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 24, 2022
The Memphis District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for keeping the Mississippi River open for commercial navigation year-round. One way the district does this is through contract dredging, which keeps the river channel at a depth that allows the river barge industry to dependably transport goods up and down the river. Ensuring the district delivers on this charge, the Memphis District recently awarded a contract in the amount of $7,335,450 to Great Lakes Dredge and Dock, LLC for the rental of a 24-inch hydraulic cutterhead dredge, discharge pipe, and attendant plant. The contract was awarded June 2, 2022, with an anticipated completion date of Feb. 28, 2023.
ACM casting project complete, revetment prepared for season ahead

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 21, 2022
“The project is designed to supply the current Mat Sinking Unit with Articulated Concrete Mattress (ACM) to use for revetment to maintain a safe and reliable navigation channel for commercial towboats in the Mississippi River,” Project Manager Zach Cook said. “If the project were not completed, there could be failures or cutoffs on the Mississippi River banks.” Cook is describing the recently completed project named “Richardson Landing Articulated Concrete Mattress Casting – Mississippi River Channel Improvement Project” located at Richardson Landing, near Drummonds, Tennessee, Mississippi River Mile 769.
Memphis District farewells commander, Miller family

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 17, 2022
The Memphis District officially said farewell to Commander Col. Zachary Miller during a Relinquishment of Command Ceremony yesterday, June 16, 2022. At 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 16, several district employees travelled to Beale Street Landing in downtown Memphis. Mississippi Valley Division Commander Maj. Gen. Diana Holland presided over a Relinquishment of Command Ceremony, where District Commander Col. Zachary Miller relinquished command of the Memphis District to Deputy District Commander Lt. Col. Robert Green. Lt. Col. Green will command the district until he transfers command to Col. Brian D. Sawser in an Assumption of Command Ceremony scheduled for late July.
Army Dive Team restores vital district asset

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 13, 2022
“The highest risk and resource-intensive Mission Essential Task (MET) we collectively train on is port opening and harbor clearance,” 511th Engineer Dive Detachment Commander Cpt. Olivia Schretzman said. “If we do not provide accurate infrastructure assessments, open ports, repair bridge sections, or clear obstacles in inland waterways, we negatively impact all sustainment and maneuver operations. It is a no-fail mission.” Schretzman commands the 511th Engineer Dive Detachment, a 25-Soldier team that deploys worldwide, performing complex and dangerous engineer tasks at depths of up to 190 feet. Schretzman explained that simulating a damaged bridge is a difficult task, so when the Memphis District reached out for assistance, both parties would benefit from the job. “The Ensley Engineer Yard had a partially sunken bridge that needed repairs, and we needed high-intensity port opening training,” Schretzman said. “This operation became known as Operation Mississippi Freedom.”
Employee Spotlight: Work for Others Technical Manager Jordan Bledsoe

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 2, 2022
“My grandfather had always said, ‘Get a job with the Corps’. That wasn’t always the goal, but funny to see how it worked out,” Jordan Bledsoe said. Bledsoe’s grandfather knew what he was talking about too, because he “actually built some of the levees in the St. Francis Basin, ultimately leading to the Huxtable Pumping Station.” Jordan Bledsoe didn’t know it at the time, but his grandfather had planted the seed that would eventually lead to his becoming the Engineering and Construction’s Work for Others (WFO) Technical Manager that he is today.
Carpenter Crowther promoted to Project Management Branch Project Manager Supervisor

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 27, 2022
Congratulations to Ms. Andrea Carpenter Crowther on her promotion to the Project Manager Supervisor position (Planning Team) in the Project Management Branch.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Memphis Metropolitan Stormwater - North Desoto County, Mississippi

Memphis District Published May 20, 2022
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will host a public meeting to inform the public and to solicit comments regarding the release of the revised draft Integrated Feasibility Report and Environmental Impact Statement (DIFR-EIS) for the Memphis Metropolitan Stormwater-North DeSoto County Feasibility Study, DeSoto County, Mississippi. The study area lies in the Horn Lake Creek-Nonconnah and Coldwater River basins in DeSoto County, Mississippi.
Castle Cookers serve up fellowship, camaraderie with BBQ at Memphis in May

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 20, 2022
The Memphis District has been competing in this barbeque contest for years, with the Castle Cookers first participating in the WCBCC in 1991 as the Pork Barrel Barbecuers. This year made year 31, with the team for the Memphis District Corps of Engineers comprising of workers from all parts of the district. “We’re a ‘for us by us’ team, which plans, fundraises, cooks, serves, and competes in the Memphis in May (MIM) event every year,” Outreach Coordinator Brian Schneider explained.
Completed Below Island 9 Project to benefit navigation industry, public

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 16, 2022
Congratulations to the Memphis District Below Island 9 Project Delivery Team for achieving total project completion on May 6, 2022. The project area, located in Lake County, Tennessee, was identified as a low water problem spot by local partners in the navigation industry. This area has been dredged by the Memphis District’s Dredge Hurley in 2020 and 2021, yet the problem spot persisted. To come up with a long term solve, a project delivery team came together to complete a dike construction project.
Dredge Hurley kicks off 2022 season

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 5, 2022
“We dredge to maintain these waterways and keep it open for commerce,” Dredge Hurley First Mate Kyle Collins said. “Millions of dollars’ worth of various commodities are transported up and down, and east to west, along these routes, and dredging keeps these lanes open and prevents closures along these trade routes.” On Apr. 26, the Dredge Hurley and crew (currently 37 people total) departed its home port, Ensley Engineer Yard, for the 2022 dredging season. Their mission: To maintain navigable shipping lanes along the western rivers and inland waterways.
A look back: Norman “Chip” Newman’s 42 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 5, 2022
It all began in February of 1980, when the Memphis District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers hired a young, energetic Memphis State University graduate. After spending some time as an intern, followed by a few years in the Inspections Section, this civil engineering major had decided to officially begin his 42-year-long career in the Geotechnical Engineering Branch. Fast forward to May of 2022, and that young man is now a newly retired (and already sorely missed) Geotechnical Design Section Supervisor, Mr. Norman ‘Chip’ Newman!
Employee Spotlight: Memphis District Administrative Professionals

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 29, 2022
Administrative Professionals are detail-oriented, organized, proactive, independent, adaptive, diligent, and maybe most importantly, they know how to handle a good amount of stress. As Engineering and Construction Administrative Specialist Tami Jacobs put it, “Without this one person, a whole lot of things do not, and would not get done, period.” We appreciate them daily, but today (April 27, 2022) is the designated “National Administrative Professionals’ Day!” So, please make sure you thank your admin pro a few more times than you usually would (like, 20 times more, at least).
Protecting the environment is a key district initiative, and fortunately for us, we have Biologist John “Mike” Thron as our environmental champion.

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 22, 2022
Earth Day is celebrated annually on April 22, and serves as a reminder to protect the environment, restore damaged ecosystems, and live a more sustainable life. Protecting the environment is a key district initiative, and fortunately for us, we have Biologist John “Mike” Thron as our environmental champion.
Running Reelfoot Bayou Feasibility Study Public Scoping Meeting

By Project Manager Jase Ray Memphis District Published April 14, 2022
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District (USACE) and the West Tennessee River Basin Authority (WTRBA) will host a general scoping meeting to solicit comments and information from the public regarding the Running Reelfoot Bayou, TN feasibility study. The study investigates National Ecosystem Restoration benefits related to restoring aquatic and floodplain habitat along the Running Reelfoot Bayou in Lake, Obion, and Dyer Counties, Tennessee. The meeting will be held on Thursday April 21, 2022, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Lake County Circuit Court in Tiptonville, TN.
Memphis District’s new Operations Division Chief Andrea Williams

By Kenneth Williams Memphis District Published April 8, 2022
Congratulations to Andrea Williams on her selection as the new Operations Division’s (OD) Chief! Williams has served in the OD Chief position on temporary assignment since January.
Rep. Jason Smith, Mississippi River Commission celebrate groundbreaking of new Caruthersville Floodwall

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 3, 2022
The Memphis District held a groundbreaking ceremony in Caruthersville, Missouri, April 3, 2022, to celebrate a federally funded project to replace the Caruthersville Mississippi River floodwall. The new floodwall will enhance the safety of more than 135,000 residents, $6.28 billion of property, and $7.5 billion of agriculture.
Smith appointed Project Development Branch Chief

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 1, 2022
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District recently promoted Derrick Smith to the role of the Project Development Branch Chief and Assistant Deputy of the Programs and Project Management Division. Smith will also serve as Regional Project Manager for the Mississippi Valley Division’s Mississippi River Channel Improvement Program.
Dr. Zuzana Chovanec is Memphis District Employee of the Month

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 31, 2022
Congratulations to Dr. Zuzana Chovanec, district archeologist, for her selection as the Memphis District Employee of the Month!
Mississippi River Commission schedules high-water inspection trip

By Mississippi River Commission MISSISSIPPI RIVER COMMISSION, U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS Published March 21, 2022
Public meetings will be held by the Mississippi River Commission On board the Motor Vessel MISSISSIPPI as follows: Caruthersville, MO - City Front Memphis, TN - Beale Street Landing Greenville, MS - City Front Baton Rouge, LA - City Front 9:00 -12:30pm, 4 April 2022 9:00 -12:30pm, 5 April 2022 9:00 -12:30pm, 6 April 2022 9:00 -12:30pm, 8 April 2022
A look back: Williamson’s 33 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 16, 2022
With more than 33 years of federal service, Engineering and Construction (E&C;) Division Chief Steve Williamson recently completed one life chapter and is now starting another. To help him close out this part of life, we're taking a look back to celebrate his life and career with the Memphis District.
Sam Tucker: A 1927 Mississippi River Flood Hero

By Floyd M. Clay Memphis District Published Feb. 10, 2022
The Great Mississippi River Flood of 1927 has its related stories of heroism. Sam Tucker was one of those heroes, but his story of bravery went left untold for many years. While he became a contemporary hero among his fellow Blacks, his acts were never made public until 1972, when a history book author began picking up bits and pieces of it. Tucker, now retired from the Memphis District, had been working on the levee just above Laconia Circle. On the evening of April 21, Tucker was the only man willing to risk his life trying to save others. This is his story.
Employee Spotlight: Geographic Information Systems Specialist Lindsay Barrios

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 3, 2022
This month, we’re featuring Geographic Information Systems Specialist Lindsay Barrios. Barrios was born and raised in Fort Payne, Alabama. After graduating from high school, she moved to Tennessee to study geology and geography at the University of Memphis. In February of 2018, Barrios officially became a member of the USACE Memphis District team. She said she was excited to work for the Corps for many reasons, which include the district’s mission as well as the leadership present throughout each of its offices.
Employee Spotlight: Regulatory Supervisor Ben Pitcock

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 5, 2022
In any business, it's the people that make it work. Without a team, organizations fail. On top of everything else valued, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District values every one of its employees very much. To show how much we value them, we highlight one district employee every month by asking about their position, what it’s like to work for the Corps, and how they got to where they are today. This month, we are highlighting Regulatory Division Supervisor Benjamin Pitcock.
A look back: Pinkston's 48 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Dec. 30, 2021
After an astonishing 48 years of combined federal service, Phillip Pinkston has decided to hang his hat, celebrating both the end and beginning of two of life’s most rewarding chapters. To celebrate his well-deserved retirement, we’re taking a look back to acknowledge all he accomplished, hear from the people he positively impacted, and more.
A look back: Coleman's 36 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Dec. 17, 2021
Real Estate Chief Hugh Coleman recently retired from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers after an incredible 36 years of federal service. To celebrate and recognize his accomplishments, we take a look back at his eventful and inspiring life and career.
A look back: Word's 32 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Dec. 8, 2021
She undertook the great responsibility of project oversight and financial analysis while her coworkers deployed in support of the 2011 Mississippi River Flood. Additionally, she quickly developed a complete understanding of the complex skills required to execute the Mississippi River and Tributaries maintenance program. These are just a few of many things Program Analyst Lisa Word accomplished before retiring after 32 years of federal service.
Final ribbon-cuttings close out two-day celebration blitz

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Dec. 7, 2021
To close out the two-day sprint across five states, the Memphis District held two final ribbon-cutting ceremonies on Nov. 18, 2021. Both events celebrated construction projects completed in Arkansas and Missouri.
Groundbreaking, ribbon-cutting, to celebrate project start, completion

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Dec. 2, 2021
The Memphis District held a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a groundbreaking ceremony on Nov. 17, 2021, to celebrate two critical construction projects in Tennessee and Kentucky. District Commander Col. Zachary Miller, district leadership, and the project delivery team members met with project partners in Ridgely, Tennessee, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The celebratory event was held to acknowledge the completion of an essential levee restoration and berm construction project. Immediately following the ceremony, district leadership and project team members traveled to the event site and met with the project partner in Hickman, Kentucky, for a groundbreaking.
Dredge Hurley returns after completing impressive season

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Nov. 26, 2021
The Memphis District’s Dredge Hurley was welcomed home after returning to its home port, Ensley Engineer Yard in Memphis Harbor, Sunday morning, Nov. 21. Their homecoming signifies the end of yet another highly productive dredging season. The Hurley started this season May 3. And in just over six months’ time, the crew dredged several hundred miles of the Lower Mississippi River.
Celebrating one of five ribbon-cuttings/groundbreakings in two days

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Nov. 24, 2021
Memphis District Commander, Col. Zachary Miller, district leadership, the Cairo Drainage District, Mound City, Illinois, and Project Delivery Team members all gathered to celebrate the completion of significant projects involving the replacement of culverts in both the northern and southern sides of the Mound City Pump Station and the installation of several relief wells in Mound City through Cairo.
USACE Planning and Response Teams: Volunteering when disaster strikes

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published July 9, 2021
Emergency preparedness and response is primarily a state and local responsibility. However, in instances when the nature of the disaster exceeds the capabilities of state and local interests, the Corps of Engineers may provide help to save human life, prevent immediate human suffering, and/or mitigate property damage. The Memphis District actively responds to emergencies throughout the country, assisting in the form of the Blue Roof Program, debris removal, temporary housing and infrastructure support, and temporary emergency power. This team of USACE pre-trained volunteers is known as the Planning and Response Team (PRT).
Employee Spotlight: Safety Advisor Harley Chase

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published July 1, 2021
He is the safety advisor to the Memphis District Commander as well as all district employees. He is charged with ensuring the district complies with all safety regulations, but most importantly, he is responsible for making sure all employees get home safely each day. His name is Harley Chase. He is the Memphis District Safety Manager and has been doing this job for 18 years now, with one and a half of them being here in Memphis, Tennessee.
Substantial completion of Nash Relief Well Rehabilitation

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 29, 2021
Congratulations to Memphis District project delivery team members for their recent work to rehabilitate 128 existing relief wells just south of Cape Girardeau, Missouri.
Memphis District employee proud of Valedictorian daughter

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 25, 2021
The Memphis District prides itself on the many achievements made by our employees throughout the year. Not only that, but we consider it especially valuable when employees and their family members experience greatness for their hard work outside of the district. Recently the district had a very special reason to celebrate. Erika Wallace, daughter of M/V Mississippi Machinery Mechanic Ervin Wallace, just graduated from Frederick Douglass Public High School as Valedictorian, with an astounding 4.4 GPA.
Wildlife Refuge repair and cleanup project completed ahead of schedule

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 4, 2021
Many may be unaware, but one of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ more common missions throughout our country is environmental stewardship. The Memphis District is one of many districts to work closely with other environmental and regulatory agencies to protect existing natural resources, cultural assets, historic sites, and endangered species. In executing this critical mission, the Memphis District, along with hired labor teams, recently completed extensive scour repairs and debris removal to assist with protecting wildlife within the Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge, located in Mississippi County, Arkansas.
Employee and Heritage Spotlight: Divina LeClair

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 31, 2021
Men are the breadwinners, and most men control family affairs. Women, on the other hand, play the role of mother, wife, and housekeeper. In their culture, it's disrespectful to stand with your hands on your hips. It's also not polite to point fingers at someone. Neither is it acceptable to spit in front of someone or lose your temper in public. And as of 2018, just over 2 million people from this country lived in the United States, accounting for 4.5 percent of the country's 44.7 million immigrants. The country is the Philippines. It is an archipelago nation consisting of more than 7,100 islands in the Pacific Ocean located near the equator. And the Memphis District woman proudly representing this land is Divina LeClair. She currently works for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as the district environmental compliance coordinator.
Memorial Day: Remembering Memphis District employees who made the ultimate sacrifice

By Ken Williams Memphis District Published May 28, 2021
For 153 years, America has set aside a day to pay tribute to our Patriots who gave their last full measure of devotion for this country. This Memorial Day, we remember three Memphis District employees who were among the 405,399 who made the ultimate sacrifice while fighting in World War II. We also remember all of our team members lost during peacetime. 1st Lt. Reeves S. Carper, 2nd Lt. John F. McIntyre, and 1st Lt. Arch R. Ponder left their jobs, co-workers, families, and friends here in Memphis to train and travel overseas to join the fight.
Remembering a Memphis District hero, brother

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 26, 2021
The Memphis District and Chasteen family recently lost a beloved member to a hard-fought battle with cancer. Darian Chasteen, who most recently held the Hydraulics and Hydrology Branch Deputy Chief title, passed away on May 7, 2021. While no longer physically with us, his legacy will forever live on. Chasteen served more than 30 years with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Memphis District. During that time, he made many friends and touched numerous lives. In honor of his life and the contributions he made, we take a look back at his life, happy and thankful to have known such a person.
Memphis District employee returns home from Afghanistan

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 20, 2021
The Memphis District recently welcomed back Electrical and General Engineer Aaron Ray from his deployment to Afghanistan. Ray deployed as an Area Support Group - Afghanistan (ASG-A) electrical engineer responsible for reviewing and approving all support requests for Task Force Power throughout Afghanistan.
Arkansas channel cleanout project ‘Ready to Advertise’

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 18, 2021
In support of the district's flood risk management mission, the Memphis District regularly plans and executes projects to maintain and repair channels and levees as needed. Most recently, a project called "The Locus Creek Channel Cleanout", recently reached a significant milestone known as "Ready to Advertise" (RTA). "Ready to Advertise" means the project package has been sent to the district contracting team for awarding this fiscal year. The work to be done is in the Craighead County, Arkansas area. According to PDT Project Manager Amber Jarnagin, Locust Creek has been experiencing debris blockages that aren't allowing proper channel drainage.
Memphis District assists Arkansas with St. Francis water trail dedication

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 11, 2021
In partnership with the St. Francis Lake Association, the Arkansas Water Trails, and the City of Trumann, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) celebrated the dedication of the St. Francis Sunken Lands Water Trails on May 5, 2021. Governor Asa Hutchinson offered some inspiring words about the value of outdoor recreation to the lives of Arkansans, saying, “The tourism industry is on the rise in Arkansas! The new St. Francis Sunken Lands Water Trails will be a major attraction in Poinsett county, bringing people in to take in this unique view of Arkansas’s natural history.”
Forked Deer Hard Points repair construction complete

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 11, 2021
"The Memphis District is responsible for maintaining a safe and dependable Mississippi River navigation channel to a minimum of 9 feet deep and 300 feet wide at all times and at all river stages," Project Manager Mark Mazzone said. That's why projects like this, the Mississippi River Channel Improvement Stone Repairs Task Order – Forked Deer Hard Points Repair, are so essential to execute as needed.
A look back: Flinn's 32 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 6, 2021
"He's worked on many projects throughout his career," Regulatory Retiree Randy Clark recalled. "His analytical insight to many Regulatory projects has been incredible and made projects better. He looked at projects from a close perspective and at the 10,000-mile-high view. He always knew when each approach was necessary and best." Clark is describing newly retired Regulatory Technical Expert Tim Flinn. Flinn served a total of 32 years of federal service before deciding he was ready to retire.
Developmental position to offer growth, new skills for USACE employee

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 3, 2021
Many U.S. Army Corps of Engineers employees are eager to learn new skills and grow in their position. Fortunately, the Memphis District oftentimes offers opportunities for its employees to do just that through what's called developmental assignments and/or positions. A developmental position is a temporary job that differs from their permanent position and is designed to train and develop employees in preparation for further career advancement. These temporary positions normally last about 120 days, but can be shorter or longer depending on the position. Additionally, the job location can either be at the employee’s home station or in a completely different state. While the differences vary from position to position, one thing remains the same, the benefits of working a developmental assignment are endless. Recently, Memphis District Procurement Analyst TiJuana' TJ' Harris was provided the chance to apply for a 120-day developmental assignment at the division level, where she said she would learn even more about the "whys" of USACE contracting.
St. Francis Basin Partnering Meeting a success

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 23, 2021
Memphis District St. Francis Basin (SFB) Partners, Stakeholders and Project Management, members of the district's Hydrology and Hydraulics branch, and district Engineering and Construction managers traveled to the Fisher Delta Research Center in Portageville, Missouri for their annual partnering meeting on Mar. 30, 2021. The Memphis District Team meets annually with SFB partners and stakeholders to provide current basin status updates.
Memphis District Hurley: Thawed out and ready to dredge

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 23, 2021
During most off seasons, maintaining the Hurley takes a few months and a couple of crews to get everything done. This off-season was a bit different, as unexpected weather posed more obstacles than usual. Much of the south, including Memphis, Tennessee, was hit hard with frigid temperatures in mid-February this year. The last time Memphians experienced weather like this was in 1994. From frozen pipes to no electricity, many people and structures were impacted by the icy weather, including the district’s Dredge Hurley.
Employee Spotlight: Memphis District Administrative Professionals

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 21, 2021
They are hard-working, reliable, flexible, exceptional communicators, organized, can multitask, and problem-solving, all while having a smile on their face. Their list of responsibilities is endless and can change from day to day depending on what is needed. Anyone who has an Administrative Professional or other specialist in this role knows how critical this person is. While appreciated daily, today, April 21, is the day these professionals should feel extra special and valued, as today is the National Administrative Professionals Day.
Thron earns Meritorious Civilian Service Medal

By Ken Williams Memphis District Published April 14, 2021
Congratulations to Memphis District Biologist Mike Thron, who on yesterday, was presented with the Meritorious Civilian Service Medal, by Mississippi Valley Division Commanding General and Mississippi River Commission President Maj. Gen. Diana Holland, for his outstanding leadership as the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) coordinator on the Mississippi River Mainline Levees (MRL) Final Supplement II (Final SEIS II).
Rescue revetment task order awarded

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 14, 2021
The Memphis District recently awarded a task order to restore existing revetment and repair over-steepened banks along the Mississippi River in Coahoma County, Mississippi, and Phillips County, Arkansas. A total of $1,344,000 was awarded on the current River Repairs IDIQ (Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity) Contract to Midwest Construction Company.
Memphis District celebrates New Madrid stormwater ditch replacement project with ribbon-cutting ceremony

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 13, 2021
The Memphis District held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate a fully functioning stormwater ditch replacement project in the New Madrid, Missouri area, on Apr. 12, 2021. A $3.4 million contract was awarded for two work areas to Tarpan Construction LLC., on Aug. 29, 2019.
Final levee system project on horizon as MVM completes preliminary projects

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 7, 2021
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District, in partnership with the Fulton County Board of Levee Commissioners (FCBLC), is nearing completion of two maintenance projects, the Island 8 Parcel 1 Relief Well Ditch Restoration Project and the Lake No. 9 Collector Ditch Erosion Repair Project, both located along the Mississippi River Mainline Levee south of Hickman, Kentucky. Completing these projects is essential, but what's even more important is what comes after. Once finished, the district will be that much closer to executing the last and final project needed to complete the entire levee system.
A look back: Woods’ 40 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 6, 2021
"He is very honest, punctual, and works to improve his skills," Supply Technician Matthew Davis said. "He has a real caring spirit. He took me under his wing when I was new, made sure I had lunch, and even drove me home a couple of times when my car had broken down. He is an all-around good guy, and I will miss him if he ever leaves." Davis is talking about Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic Leader Robert Woods. Woods is the working leaderman in the Tractor Shop, performing duties as a mechanic and overseeing all other mechanics in the Yards and Docks Unit. He's been doing so for a little more than 40 years now.
A Captain's role in an ACF build-out

By Cpt. Alexander Burruss Memphis District Published April 6, 2021
Editors Note: April 6, 2020 was the day the Memphis District awarded the contract to build an Alternate Care Facility (ACF) in Memphis, Tennessee. The article below was written by Cpt. Alex Burruss, who at that time deployed to the Memphis District to work as an Operations Officer and assist with ACF projects and operations. This is his account of what happened during his few months working here. At the onset of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. USACE collaborated with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to develop a plan for the rapid expansion of COVID-19 treatment spaces. USACE assigned each of its districts an area of responsibility, and the districts integrated into the local and state response agencies within their areas of responsibility. As local civil authorities conducted analysis and projected bed space requirements, USACE developed facility modification options for accommodating additional beds. Districts completed site assessments and provided project management support for converting existing buildings into alternate care facilities (ACFs). In April 2020, three weeks after the President declared a national emergency, the U.S. Army Engineer School (USAES), Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, deployed more than 30 Soldiers in support of the USACE response effort; Cpt. Alex W. Burruss was deployed to the Memphis District, USACE Mississippi Valley Division, Tennessee, for more than 60 days.
Celebrating the valiant women of USACE

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 29, 2021
"I can do anything I want to do," young Suzy Weil, now Memphis District counsel and senior legal officer said. “Now, looking back,” she said, "I never questioned that I could one day could grow up and do whatever I wanted to do. I can remember one of my father's law partners and best friend and his wife who was an attorney… and I can remember this woman who would come to my house. I would call her aunt Sherry. I just never thought it was something I could never do – becoming a lawyer." This is just one of many responses heard during the virtual meeting the Memphis District held in celebration of Women's History Month. The meeting, held on Mar. 24, 2021, featured seven of the Mississippi Valley Division's most exceptional women working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). During the meeting, with a theme aptly titled "Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to be Silenced!", Memphis District Counsel and Senior Legal Officer Suzy Weil acted as both moderator and participant in a captivating one and half hour Question and Answer session.
Revolutionizing project management

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 26, 2021
Memphis District employees pride themselves on finding ways to revolutionize how they work. One of the more recent ways they've modernized processes comes in the form of the new Smart Project Updates Dashboard, also affectionately known as SPUD.
USACE Division Deputies visit Memphis for Summit, Engineer Yard tour

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 25, 2021
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Division Deputies recently met in Memphis, Tennessee, for a Deputies Summit and tour of the Memphis District area. "The USACE HQ Deputy Summit enables the MSC/Centers/Labs and 249th Engineer Battalion (Prime Power) Deputies to share lessons learned, best practices and engage key HQs staff on Enterprise challenges, policies, and processes in order to Take Care of our People, Support National Readiness, Modernize, Strengthen Partnerships, and Revolutionize Delivery," Mississippi Valley Division Deputy Division Engineer Col. Jeremy Chapman said.
Project Makeover: Tractor Shop Breakroom

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 23, 2021
The Memphis District's skilled tradesmen are at it again, demoing and remodeling one building at a time until they've covered every structure in need of a makeover at Ensley Engineer Yard. Recently, a team of mechanics, electricians, carpenters, pipefitters, HVAC technicians, and revetment workers all got together to completely renovate the Tractor Shop’s breakroom, literally from the ground up.
Employee Spotlight: Carla Wells

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 18, 2021
In any business, it’s the people that make it work. Without them, organizations ultimately fail. That’s why the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District values each and every one of its employees so much. To show how much we do, we highlight one employee every month by asking a few questions about the position they’re in and how they got to where they are today. This month, we are highlighting Carla Wells. She is a government purchase card business manager for the Contracting/Oversight Branch.
Revetment Team returns after historic season

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 17, 2021
The Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Army (Civil Works) Vance Stewart and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Deputy Commanding General for Civil and Emergency Operations Maj. Gen. William (Butch) Graham visited the Memphis District last week. While visiting, they had the opportunity to welcome home and congratulate the Revetment Team after completing one of the district's longest seasons in history.
St. Francis Levee District awarded Outstanding Maintenance Award

By Jessica Haas Memphis District Published March 16, 2021
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Deputy Commanding General for Civil and Emergency Operations, Maj. Gen. William (Butch) Graham and the Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Army (Civil Works), Vance Stewart, stopped in West Memphis, Arkansas, where they were briefed by our St. Francis Levee District of Arkansas Partner Rob Rash, Memphis District Project Manager Jason Dickard, and Geotechnical Branch Chief Cory Williams on the Mississippi River Levee system.
2021 Channel Improvement Team Meeting a success

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 16, 2021
In a virtual get-together held mid-February, members of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Engineering and Construction Department, operations leaders from the Memphis, Vicksburg, and New Orleans Districts, project managers, regional team members, environmental partners, and other representatives from the St. Louis District, all came together for their annual Mississippi River Channel Improvement meeting to discuss environmental projects and other current channel improvement issues.
Maj. Gen. Graham visits notable Memphis District Grand Prairie Project

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 15, 2021
Memphis District Commander Col. Zachary Miller and other district leaders hosted the Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Army (Civil Works), Mr. Vance Stewart, and USACE's Deputy Commanding General for Civil and Emergency Operations, Maj. Gen. William (Butch) H. Graham, on March 11, 2021. During his tour, Graham stopped by the Grand Prairie Project to learn more about conserving groundwater resources throughout the region.
White River Backwater Levee Gravel Resurfacing a success

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 12, 2021
Imagine it’s pouring rain for days on end, and you live near the Mississippi River. Not a far-fetched idea for many. With rain comes rising river waters and possible flooding. To prepare for such events, monitoring the river is essential but much harder to do if the levee surface isn’t safe for travel. That’s why projects like this one are important to the people living near and around the White River Backwater Levee.
Associated General Contractors of America Event a success

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 9, 2021
The Mississippi Valley Associated General Contractors of America (MVAGC) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi Valley Division (MVD) met for an event known as the Mississippi Valley Construction Roundtable, which was held in downtown Memphis, Tennessee, this year on Feb. 18 and 19. “The meeting between the Mississippi Valley Branch of the AGC and Mississippi Valley Division of the Corps of Engineers offers an opportunity for staff from the division headquarters and six districts to interact with our contracting partners who help us deliver our program,” Construction Branch Chief Jim Wolff said. “Through two key meetings (the Dredging Issues Roundtable and the Construction Specifications Session Roundtable), open communication, and frank discussion, we identify issues or problems related to dredging, construction, and contracting. These meetings offer member contractors an open forum to develop potential solutions to solve issues or problems.”
Ready to Advertise St. Francis Floodway Project

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published March 4, 2021
In partnership with the Dunklin County Levee District Number 4, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District recently met a tasker “ready to advertise” milestone, ahead of schedule, for the St. Francis Floodway Blockage Project in Cardwell, Missouri, Feb. 17, 2021. As a result of the storms and resulting flood impact in this region, sedimentation and debris built up in drainage channels reduce the capacity to drain stormwater runoff adequately. The work associated with this project will increase the channel's capacity and reduce the chances of localized flooding, threatening property damage, and life safety.
West Basin Scour Repairs Phase 3 Construction Project complete

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 25, 2021
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District successfully completed a construction project in partnership with the Little River Drainage District in Bollinger County, Missouri. The West Basin Scour Repairs Phase 3 Construction contract was awarded to SYTE Corporation for $4,613,864 to repair multiple bank scours along four miles of the Castor River Diversion Channel.
Eight Mile Creek Levee Culvert Replacement Project Ready to Advertise

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 25, 2021
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District recently met a tasker milestone known as “Ready to Advertise” for the Eight Mile Creek Levee Culvert Replacement Project in Greene County, Arkansas, Feb. 5, 2021.
A look back: Newton’s 33 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 24, 2021
Supervisory Budget Analyst Marcia Newton retired late last year after serving almost 33 years of federal service. To celebrate and recognize her for all she's done, we look back at her life and career. "I grew up in Indiana -- a few years in Wolcottville, but most years were in Marion," Newton started. "I went to Marion High School and then Marion College (now called Indiana Wesleyan University) in Marion, Indiana." Newton started her federal service in April of 1988, working as a voucher examiner and lead voucher examiner in Fulda, West Germany.
A look back: Clark’s 37 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 9, 2021
Wildlife Biologist and Project Manager Randy Clark retired late last year after serving 37 years of federal service. To celebrate him, we will take a look back at his life and career to recognize him for everything he's done, not just for the Memphis District but also for our nation. Clark first started working for the federal government with the Nashville District in 1978 as a summer hire in the Environmental Analysis Branch. There he worked on Cultural Resources for the Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway.
Success: Two Projects: Trotters, Rena Lara seepage remediation

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Feb. 8, 2021
The fifth and final ribbon-cutting ceremony, held on Jan. 20, celebrated two construction projects completed in Tunica County, Trotters, Mississippi, and Coahoma County, Rena Lara, Mississippi.
W.G. Huxtable gear box repair complete

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 29, 2021
Among the five ribbon cuttings held Jan. 20, Memphis District leadership stopped at the W.G. Huxtable Pumping Plant in Lee County, Marianna, Arkansas, to celebrate another project completed with the help of District Partner St. Francis Levee District, pumping plant employees, and the Project Delivery Team.
Graham Burke Pumping Station back online

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 29, 2021
Congratulations to the Memphis District team responsible for getting the Graham Burke Pumping Station repaired and back online. To celebrate construction completion, the Memphis District Commander Col. Zachary Miller, district leadership, the Project Delivery Team, and a representative of District Partner White River Levee and Drainage District, other pumping plant employees came together to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony on Jan. 20, 2021.
Complete: Scour repairs downstream of St. Francis bridge

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 29, 2021
The Memphis District has done it again. The Memphis District Commander, Col. Zachary Miller, district leadership, Project Partner Rob Rash, and Project Delivery Team members all gathered to celebrate, with a ribbon-cutting, the completion of yet another significant project involving riverbank armoring. Along with our longtime partner, the St. Francis Levee District of Arkansas, represented by Rob Rash, the Memphis District awarded a contract to A Rock Construction Co., Inc., in the amount of $2,786,197, to remove debris, reshape the channel, and armor the bank with more than 27,000 tons of stone along the CR736 Bridge over the St. Francis River in St. Francis County, Arkansas.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony for Hopefield Point completion

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 22, 2021
The Memphis District Commander Col. Zachary Miller, district leadership, and members of the Project Delivery Team gathered on the Mississippi Riverbanks in Arkansas for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of a bank armoring project, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021.
A look back: Kuykendoll Cash’s 35 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 22, 2021
Congratulations to Project Management Branch Chief Regina Kuykendoll Cash, who retired from the Memphis District after serving about 35 years of federal service. To celebrate her, we take a look back at her many years of service and recognize her for most everything she’s done, not just for the Memphis District, but also for our Nation.
The 55th Chief of Engineers visits the Memphis District

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Jan. 15, 2021
The 55th Chief of Engineers, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Lt. Gen. Scott Spellmon, and the 14th Command Sergeant Major, Command Sergeant Major Patrickson Toussaint, visited the Memphis District last week to better understand some of the ways the district supports the USACE Civil Works mission.
Memphis dry dock back in action

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Dec. 22, 2020
The largest dry dock north of New Orleans, Louisiana, is back in action at the Memphis District's Ensley Engineer Yard after spending 14 months in Morgan City, Louisiana. The Memphis District dry dock, known as ‘5801', was shipped to the Conrad Shipyard in Louisiana for repairs and maintenance in June 2019. The dock has been operating since 1958.
Hurley docked after another successful dredging season

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Dec. 11, 2020
After almost eight months of dredging the Mississippi River, the Dredge Hurley and crew are now home where the Hurley is docked at Ensley Engineer Yard for some much-needed repairs and maintenance.
Projects Completed: Pumping plant engine repairs

By Kenneth Williams Memphis District Published Dec. 3, 2020
Engines at Memphis District’s Huxtable and Graham Burke Pumping Plants needed extensive repairs to return the plants to full operation. Two service contracts were awarded and the Project Delivery Team, along with its local partners, has successfully reached project completion on both. Congratulations Team.
Giving back where it matters most

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Nov. 26, 2020
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the percentage of Americans without work skyrocketed from a little over 4 percent to a full-blown 14 percent between March and April this year. While that number has dwindled down in percentage points from month to month, it's still nowhere near where we were before our country was hit with COVID-19 and consequently suffered a significant collapse in the job market. This is part of what motivated U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District's Brian Schneider. Schneider is the district's Outreach Coordinator and has been with the Memphis District for just over a year. As his title suggests, he's passionate about reaching out, and that's just what he did when this opportunity presented itself.
A USACE father, son built strong

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Nov. 12, 2020
Children often want to make their fathers proud, and an involved father promotes inner growth and strength. Studies have shown that when fathers are affectionate and supportive, it mostly affects a child's development. It also instills an overall sense of well-being and self-confidence in the child over time. After speaking with a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers father/son duo, the evidence is clear; this father was absolutely present in his son's life. And in turn, both father and son reap the benefits while working together at the Memphis District Ensley Engineer Yard (EEY).
Memphis District awards several critical service contracts

By Jessica Haas Memphis District Published Nov. 12, 2020
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District recently awarded five service contracts in Missouri and Arkansas to maintain and improve upon the Mississippi River and Tributaries (MR&T;) Project.
A birthday to remember

By Jessica Haas Memphis District Published Oct. 20, 2020
As children, we grow up dreaming of what we want to be when we grow up. When we set our sights on something and become passionate about it, nothing can get in our way. One Memphis District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers child is very interested in police officers, to say the least. Anything having to do with the police, he loves it.
USACE supports storm survivors with safe structures

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Oct. 15, 2020
Responding to disasters is one of several missions the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is tasked with. Part of answering this call is through specialized teams that go out and conduct infrastructure assessments in disaster areas. "On Aug. 29, the Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) deployed an Infrastructure Assessment Planning and Response Team (PRT) management cell to Louisiana," Infrastructure Assessment Action Officer Doug Weber said. "When I first started on the Infrastructure Assessment team, I thought it was all about placarding peoples’ homes for safety, " Mission Specialist Adrienne Murphy said. "But in our last two deployments, we’ve been asked to perform inspections of drinking water systems, wastewater systems, and public facilities like hospitals and fire stations."
Remembering our Memphis District brothers and sister

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Published Oct. 9, 2020
Members of the Memphis District gathered for a memorial yesterday morning at the Clifford-Davis Odell Horton Federal Building to honor and remember seven teammates, who to many of us were family, that we unfortunately lost over the last year. An additional ceremony was held later in the day at the Ensley Engineer Yard to dedicate a newly planted tree to those seven fallen teammates. The tree was planted to replace the first commemorative tree, dedicated to all deceased U.S. Army Corps of Engineers members who had served proudly. That tree had 'lived it's given life' and was unfortunately uprooted during a strong storm in years past.
Blue Roof recipients witness USACE innovation

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 30, 2020
Innovating and improving processes are what the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers do, especially when it comes to hurricane recovery operations. So when it came time to respond to a Hurricane like Laura, the Corps came ready to deliver temporary roofing with an upgraded Blue Roof Program.
System 12 Slope Flattening Project contract awarded

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published Sept. 30, 2020
Congratulations to the System 12 Slope Flattening Project Delivery Team for reaching its Contract Award milestone. The PDT awarded the contract to SYTE Corporation on September 22. The work consists of furnishing all plant, labor and materials for flattening the slope for a 5,700-foot section of levee by placement of compacted fill.
Local Government Liaisons reach the hearts of communities

By George Stringham Published Sept. 29, 2020
Often during disaster response, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Planning and Response Teams such as, temporary emergency power, debris removal and Operation Blue Roof are the Corps activities in the limelight; however, the little-known and little-seen Local Government Liaison, or LGL, national cadre is operating in the background, providing a critical lifeline of communication between Federal Emergency Management Agency, the state, local officials, and the Corps.
Corps, Samaritan's Purse go above and beyond for Laura survivor

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 24, 2020
"The day I met Mr. Williams, I was looking for his house and drove past it because I didn't see it; all I saw were trees," Roofing Quality Assurance Specialist George Hayes recalled. "Honestly, I wasn't expecting anyone to be home. So many folks evacuated after the storm, I just figured no one was home. As I got closer to the door, I heard his little dog bark. I yelled, "Is anyone home?" and I saw a movement through the window. The door opened, and he drove his wheelchair out onto the front porch. My heart just sank." At that moment, Hayes knew he needed to go above and beyond to help this man.
PDT awards drainage channel cleanout contract

By Ken Williams Memphis District Published Sept. 23, 2020
Congratulations to the Iron Mines Creek Channel Cleanout Project Delivery Team (PDT). The PDT recently reached its contract award milestone, awarding the contract to small business contractor Innovative Performance Construction. Work on the contract includes the cleanout of 3.9 miles of the Iron Mines Creek channel located in Marked Tree, Poinsett County, Arkansas.
Corps Power PRTs onsite in Louisiana

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 16, 2020
Living in the 21st century, most Americans have electricity on demand. When it isn’t working, it usually doesn’t take longer than a day to get it turned back on. But what happens when a storm like Hurricane Laura hits? Close to 200,000 residents living in southwestern Louisiana lost power on Aug. 27. Many of them are still without it, weeks after the storm has come and gone. Delivering power to southwest Louisiana is one of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' top priorities. USACE is installing generators in several critical facilities like water pump stations, sewage lift stations, hospitals, radio towers, and corrections facilities, to name a few. The 23-person team responsible for installing these generators ensured they were in Louisiana before Hurricane Laura even made landfall.
Corps of Engineers fully engaged in LA Hurricane recovery efforts

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 7, 2020
When Hurricane Laura struck Lake Charles, Louisiana, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Mississippi Valley Division (MVD) response and recovery teams were already in place to execute the critical mission assignments assigned by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Damages sustained in southwestern Louisiana warrant USACE expertise. Mission assignments range from temporary roofing and emergency power installation to supporting the temporary housing mission and conducting infrastructure assessments and providing debris removal technical assistance to the state.
First temporary ‘Blue Roof’ a success

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Sept. 6, 2020
“The governor happened to have a news conference and my wife said, well what about the blue roofs?” Duhon said. “She gave me the information and I got online and registered and here we are today.” The purpose of the program is to provide homeowners in disaster areas with fiber-reinforced sheeting to cover damaged roofs until permanent repairs can be made. The deadline to sign up for the Blue Roof Program is Sept. 21. Don't wait!
District awards contract for Farrenburg Levee Phase 5 project

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published Sept. 4, 2020
Congratulations to the Farrenburg Levee Phase 5 Project Delivery Team (PDT) for advancing their project to the important Contract Award milestone. The team awarded the contract to VuCon, LLC. on August 30. Work the contractor will perform consists of replacing two culverts, which have reached their life expectancy, that cross under the Farrenbeurg Levee, closing a gap in the levee and raising sections of the levee to the authorized grade. Drainage infrastructure like this is a vital part of the overall levee protection system.
District conducts successful ditch cleanout project pre-construction conference

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published Aug. 31, 2020
While they’d rather have the face-to-face variety, the Caruthersville Area Office (CAO) team is highly successful at conducting effective virtual pre-construction conferences made necessary by the COVID-19 pandemic. On August 25, CAO successfully conducted a virtual pre-construction conference for the Ditch 251 Upper Channel Cleanout project. This critical $8,890,292 cleanout project is to return a 30-mile reach of Ditch 251 to its authorized level of flood protection.
Memphis Team deployed to Louisiana in support of Hurricane Laura relief efforts

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Aug. 27, 2020
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Memphis District deployed a 13-member Emergency Power Planning and Response Team (PRT) to support Federal Emergency Management Agency's Hurricane Laura response, on Aug 26.
A look back: Williams' 30+ years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Aug. 21, 2020
"If you walk around this vessel, chances are you will find him working somewhere around here, even when he is off the watch," Dredge Hurley Assistant Master Tim Tucker said. "We sometimes have to make him stop to go to his room to relax after a long day. If some of the kids coming out of high school these days would show up with half of the work ethic that he has, we would really get a lot more done." Tucker is describing Curtis Williams, who is also known by many on the dredge as "Lil Wolf". Williams is the Dredge Hurley's ship keeper and has been with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a little more than 30 years.
Critical drainage channels to be maintained

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Aug. 12, 2020
Throughout its history, the Lower Mississippi River Flood Plain has been besieged by floodwaters; that’s why flood risk management is one of the Memphis District's major mission areas. We serve as the first line of defense for the entire lower Valley. Working to execute this mission and serving as that first line of defense, a Memphis District Project Delivery Team awarded three major contracts to perform maintenance on drainage channels 1 and 251, which are located in the Little River Drainage District in Southeast Missouri. The contracts are for lower Ditch 251, upper Ditch 251, and upper Ditch 1 and authorize contractors to go in and return a total of 89 miles worth of drainage channels to their authorized level of flood protection.
District awards contract to safeguard railroad bridge on St. Francis River

By Jim Pogue, Public Affairs Chief Memphis District Published Aug. 6, 2020
Two bridges crossing a major Arkansas waterway were under attack by scouring currents that threatened to undermine the safety of the structures. In response to this potentially dangerous situation, the Memphis District on July 30 issued a repair contract to Polk & Associates. The project consists of repairing a scour site downstream of State Highway 51 Bridge which crosses over the St Francis River at Fisk, Missouri, as well as a Union Pacific Railroad Bridge. These bridges serve communities in Stoddard and Butler Counties, Missouri.
District issues two task orders to ensure safe, reliable navigation on Mississippi River

By Jim Pogue, Public Affairs Office Chief Memphis District Published Aug. 6, 2020
Working to ensure this lifeblood of American commerce flows uninterrupted, the Memphis District issued two Task Orders late last month to Midwest Construction Company for channel improvement work. These were for stone repairs to existing damaged dikes, hardpoints, revetments, and other river training structures and placement of riprap upper bank paving for stone protection above articulated concrete mattress (ACM). The work will take place at seven different river locations within the Memphis District.
A look back: Hamilton’s 35 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Aug. 6, 2020
Hamilton was born in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1957, and later adopted by his parents at the young age of six months. "I grew up here in Wynne, where the (USACE) Area Office is located (and now where he works)," he said. "And I graduated from Arkansas State University in 1982."
Corps to resurface 15 miles of White River Backwater levee

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published Aug. 5, 2020
The White River Backwater Levee Gravel Resurfacing Project Delivery Team (PDT) recently celebrated reaching their project’s Contract Award milestone. They awarded the contract to A-Rock Construction which will resurface 15 miles of the White River Backwater levee in Phillips and Monroe Counties, Arkansas. This maintenance work on the levee’s crown provides safe and reliable access for vehicles and monitoring levee conditions.
110 miles of levee to be resurfaced in the St. Francis Basin

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published Aug. 4, 2020
Working with our local project Partner, the St. Francis Levee District of Arkansas, the St. Francis River Gravel Resurfacing Project Delivery Team (PDT) has advanced their project to the Contract Award milestone. They awarded an $8,353,877 contract to JLC Trucking to resurface 110 miles of levee in Cross, Poinsett, Craighead, and Mississippi Counties in Arkansas. This important contract maintenance work provides safe and reliable access for vehicles and monitoring levee conditions.
Levee in Lee County, Arkansas to be resurfaced

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published Aug. 4, 2020
The Arkansas Levee Gravel Resurfacing Project Delivery Team (PDT) celebrated reaching their project’s Contract Award milestone on July 28. They awarded the $2,631,978 contract to Polk & Associates LLC which will resurface approximately 21 miles of the mainline Mississippi River Levee in Lee County, Arkansas. This maintenance of the levee’s crown provides safe and reliable access for vehicles and monitoring levee conditions.
Levee in New Madrid getting resurfaced

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published Aug. 4, 2020
Conquering a milestone is a big deal for our project delivery teams (PDT). On July 28, the Missouri Levee Gravel Resurfacing PDT celebrated reaching the significant Contract Award project milestone. They awarded the $1,983,466 contract to Better by Design which will resurface approximately 22 miles of the mainline Mississippi River Levee in New Madrid, Missouri. This maintenance on the levee’s crown provides safe and reliable access for vehicles and monitoring levee conditions.
Contract awarded for Old Town Seepage Remediation project

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published Aug. 3, 2020
Congratulations to the Old Town Seepage Remediation Project Delivery Team on reaching their Contract Award Milestone for their project located in Arkansas and Cotton Belt Levee District Number One. The project team awarded the $5,042,556 contract to the Sytes Corporation. The project involves extending the existing seepage remediation berm. The slated begin date for construction is Oct. 16 this year, with a tentative completion date of April 2023.
Contract awarded for Big Slough Channel Restoration project

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published July 31, 2020
The Big Slough Channel Restoration project delivery team (PDT) members are feeling pretty good because they’ve reached the significant Contract Award milestone on their project. They awarded the contract to Polk & Associates, LLC.
District reaches important milestone on Ditch 251 cleanout project

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published July 22, 2020
While we humans are not that fond of change, we have an amazing ability to adapt to change. Adaptability is a strength the Caruthersville Area Office (CAO) and our Project Delivery Teams (PDT) quickly leveraged when they had to switched to virtual pre-construction conferences to continue pushing projects forward. Five months into COVID-19 pandemic working conditions, virtual pre-construction conferences are the new normal—for now. On July 15, the CAO and PDT members held a virtual pre-construction conference to kick-off work on the Ditch 251 Lower Channel Cleanout project. The purpose of pre-construction conferences is to kick-off the project with a “face-to-face” meeting of key members from the contractor, Federal Government, and project partner to achieve a clear and mutual understanding of all contract requirements and to identify and resolve potential problems.
Bank Grading Unit paves way for commerce, safety

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published July 16, 2020
Memphis District Commander Col. Zachary Miller recently visited Island 68, a project site in Arkansas, where he met with the district’s hardworking Bank Grading Unit and reviewed progress made at the site thus far. According to Project Manager and River/Civil Engineer Cole Stonebrook, we have done work here before as this area is particularly erosive and scours easily in moving water. “The soils in the area are very unstable and highly erosive,” he said. “We are addressing a large bank failure by grading irregularities in the bank alignment to a smooth straight alignment. The Grading Unit is grading the banks to a one on four slope, which requires moving 220,000 cubic yards of material.”
Keeping a commitment to the environment

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published July 10, 2020
The Memphis District has a team of scientific divers experienced in qualitative and quantitative freshwater mussel surveys and aquatic habitat investigations. The team conducts surveys in large and small rivers and various aquatic habitats throughout the country. On July 7, the dive team performed a survey in Iron Mines Creek in Marked Tree, Ark. as part of an environmental impact assessment for a creek cleanout project.
Providing solutions worldwide

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published July 7, 2020
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ vision is, “Engineering solutions for our Nation’s toughest challenges.” Not only does this vision relate to challenges here in the United States, but it applies to those encountered all over the world. Part of working toward that vision asks our employees to deploy and sometimes work for and with other agencies overseas. Recently, two members of the Memphis District volunteered to do just that.
Slide repairs contracted in four states

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 29, 2020
The Memphis District's Caruthersville Area Office team successfully held a virtual preconstruction conference to discuss contracts awarded for future levee slide repairs in Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Tennessee. “The contracts furnish all plant, labor, equipment, and any incidental-related work according to the plans and specifications for repairing 18 slides under Work Area Three and 14 slides under Work Area Four for a total of 32 slides,” Lead Civil Engineer Jack Ratliff said.
District holds virtual preconstruction conference for West Basin Scour repairs

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published June 24, 2020
Learning to love virtual meetings and conferences in the age of COVID-19 is a challenge that takes adaptability, professionalism, and a keen focus on the task at hand. That’s what the Caruthersville Area Office team learned on June 19 as they worked through a few technical issues to successfully host the West Basin Scour Repair project virtual preconstruction conference with contractor SYTE Corporation. Despite the occasional virtual meeting technical issue and COVID-19 working conditions, Memphis District team members continue to successfully execute the largest program in the District’s history. A part of this program is the West Basin Scour Repair Project, Phase 3 which will repair three scour site locations along the right descending bank of the West Basin Levee, Headwater Diversion Channel in Bollinger County, Mo. The contractor, SYTE Corporation, will stabilize the scour locations with rip-rap in order to restore the channel to pre-flood conditions. This is Phase 3 of 5 planned scour repair projects designed to protect the West Basin Levee.
District partners with MRPP to improve MLK Riverside Park

By Public Affairs Office Chief Jim Pogue Published June 24, 2020
Partnership has long been a driving principle for the Memphis District as we strive to best serve our region and the nation. And we are always looking for new partners and ways to strengthen existing partnerships. One of the tools that provides a vehicle for partnerships is the Planning Assistance to States (PAS) program. With this in mind, we recently launched a PAS project with the Memphis River Parks Partnership (MRPP) to help develop a comprehensive master plan for Martin Luther King, Jr. Riverside Park, located at 498 West Mallory. The project will identify improvements to the recreation areas to make the park more attractive to Memphis residents and visitors. Our PAS team met with MRPP President Carol Coletta and Jamal Boddie on June 18 for a site visit at the park to discuss the scope of work for a Master Plan Study.
Grand Prairie Widened Canal Project pre-final inspection

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published June 19, 2020
Congratulations to the Memphis District Grand Prairie Widened Canal Project Delivery Team (PDT) for reaching their Pre-final Inspection milestone. On June 17, PDT members met on-site with contractor Southern Contracting to inspect construction work and develop a punch list of remaining items required to finish construction.
Memphis District Commander tours several project sites

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 19, 2020
Memphis District Commander Col. Zachary Miller had a busy day June 17 kicking off a summer full of visiting several of the district's project sites in our area of responsibility. Encompassing almost 25,000 square miles, the Memphis District is responsible for federal civil works projects in portions of six states - Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri and Tennessee.
Oldtown Seepage Remediation Project site showing

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published June 17, 2020
Working remotely from their separate homes, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but in concert towards the same goal, the Oldtown Seepage Remediation Project Delivery Team (PDT) successfully reached their Site Showing milestone. The PDT held the project site showing on June 11 in Helena, Ark., which helped contract bidders familiarize themselves with the geographical area and work associated with the project.
Memphis Revetment Season in full swing

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 15, 2020
The Memphis District Revetment season officially began this year on June 11, with District Commander Col. Zachary Miller hosting a kickoff meeting at the Ensley Engineer Yard to get things started. “Protecting the Mississippi River banks keeps the channel in place, which maintains the necessary depth and alignment that allows the thousands of tows to travel up and down the river year round,” the commander said. “Without this work, the river would shift resulting in new, shallow cutoffs that could not be safely traveled.”
Yazoo Levee Seepage Remediation PDT awards contract

By Ken Williams Memphis District Public Affairs Office Published June 12, 2020
Congratulations to the Yazoo Levee Seepage Remediation PDT for reaching their contract award milestone. They recently awarded the contract to sure-up the integrity of the levee in Commerce, Miss. to the Syte Corporation. The contract work consist of installing 30 relief wells and extending the seepage berm 2,700 feet. The seepage berm extension and relief well installations will help reduce water seepage under the levee which could weaken the integrity of the levee and the overall flood protection system.
Following in dad's footsteps: A tour of MVM

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 9, 2020
Cpt. Alex Burruss was supposed to move to Ft. Hood, Texas, but due to the Coronavirus situation, Army priorities quickly shifted and the captain found himself moving to Tennessee instead. “I was excited, but also a little frustrated,” he explained. “However, I saw Lt. Gen. Semonite discussing the Alternate Care Site mission on the news and knew that we were -are- living in a unique time in history and that it would take a national-level effort to beat COVID-19.”
Harbor dredging contract awarded

By Ken Williams Memphis District, Public Affairs Published June 8, 2020
Congratulations to the Harbor Dredging Project Delivery Team (PDT) for awarding the contract to dredge four local harbors: Elvis Stahr Harbor in Hickman, Ky.; Memphis Harbor-McKellar Lake and Wolf River Harbor in Memphis, Tenn.; and Helena Harbor in Phillips County, Ark.
A look back: Nadler's 40 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published June 3, 2020
Ensley Engineer Yard (EEY) Pipefitter Guy Nadler recently celebrated 40 years of federal service with 20 of them being with the Memphis District. Nadler started his exciting career with the government in 1978 when he joined the U.S. Air Force. He attended Basic Training and Technical School before going into the security police career field in Italy.
PDT conducts first virtual VE study work session

By Ken Williams Memphis District Published May 29, 2020
The Slope Flattening Project Delivery Team (PDT) recently conducted the first virtual value engineering (VE) study work session with team member Neal Newman, who happens to be one of only 12 certified value specialists in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Future leaders during COVID-19

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 28, 2020
The Memphis District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is known for executing many different tasks, projects and missions all at the same time. Even when COVID-19 presented itself, this district didn’t stop doing everything it’s normally charged to do. Like many other organizations around the world, the Coronavirus altered how some projects were carried out within the district; this included how the Leadership Development Program (LDP) continued on as well.
A look back: Marshall’s 40 years of service

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 28, 2020
“First and foremost, what inspired me was the veterans,” Marshall said. “While serving as a purchasing agent in the Prosthetics Department of the VA, I enjoyed helping the veterans get the products, medicines, home alterations, and equipment they needed. Providing equipment for the blind and handicapped, and seeing their appreciation for the small things filled my heart with joy. I enjoyed having input in the selection of the equipment provided, and enjoyed informing them of products or services they were unaware that they may have qualified for.” Contract Specialist Valerie Marshall recently celebrated 40 years of federal service, so we decided to step back and take a look at how she spent those years, as we are very grateful for her service to the Memphis District as well as to this nation.
Virtual PDT awards contract for Island 18 Phase 5 project ahead of schedule

By Ken Williams Published May 28, 2020
Despite being new to virtual teamwork, the Island 18 Phase 5 Project Delivery Team (PDT) performed exceptionally well and exceeded expectations when they reached their Contract Award milestone on May 20, ahead of schedule.
Virtual PDT reaches Contract Award milestone ahead of schedule

By Ken Williams Memphis District Published May 22, 2020
When the COVID-19 pandemic required the Memphis District to mass telework, our Project Delivery Teams (PDT) suddenly became virtual teams. With the sudden pivot to virtual teamwork, you might expect a lag in PDT performance. However, despite their lack of experience as a virtual team, the Mellwood Seepage Remediation PDT quickly adjusted to remote teamwork and reached their Contract Award milestone, on May 19, ahead of schedule.
Fisk Scour Repair Project is Ready-to-Advertise

By Ken Williams Memphis District Published May 22, 2020
Reaching a project milestone is the result of successive interim achievements along the way. Successive interim achievements have propelled the Fisk Scour Repair Project Delivery Team (PDT) to successfully reach its important Ready-to-Advertise milestone on May 15.
Pre-construction teleconference held to kick-off levee slide repairs

By Ken Williams Memphis District Published May 21, 2020
Today, the Memphis District held a pre-construction teleconference with C&M; Contractors, Inc. to kick-off levee slide repairs on the White River Backwater levee and along the Mississippi River levee. This teleconference discussed and issued the Notice-to-Proceed for levee slide repairs in Work Areas 1 and 2, both in Arkansas.
New Supplemental Program Manager, Programs Management Branch

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 20, 2020
Simmerman began his career as a Civil Engineer in the Survey Section, where he completed a year and a half “intern” rotational assignment rotating through various Memphis District Offices. Andy has also worked on the Mississippi River Channel Improvement Project and has served over four years as a Project Manager working on projects in Eastern Arkansas, mainly the Grand Prairie Project and White River Comprehensive Study, as well as the St. Johns New Madrid Project.
Metal Shop makings...

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 15, 2020
Navigation is one of our oldest missions. We’re mandated by Congress to keep the Mississippi River open for commercial navigation by maintaining a 9-foot-deep and 300-foot-wide channel, and we do that by dredging on an annual basis. So, as one might imagine, our dustpan dredge, the Hurley, gets used quite a bit keeping the Mississippi open, so our talented team at Ensley Engineer Yard have their work cut out for them keeping her running year after year. This brings us to the project Machinist Brandon Almeida is working on – it’s something the Dredge Hurley uses called “propeller rope guards.” He’s also making the mount needed to make the rope guards on – talk about complex work.
Memphis Builders: Behind the Mask III

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 10, 2020
This next builder of the care facility really stood out to me – and it wasn’t the side by side braids either. It was her presence. Have you ever just met someone who gives off a certain type of aura or energy that makes you feel a little more calm or at ease? This person had it. Here from St. Joseph, Missouri, her name is Jonna Henry, and she works for a subcontractor in Safety. I guess her occupation explains that aura I felt earlier.
Memphis Builders: Behind the Mask II

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published May 1, 2020
Building this FEMA-assigned Alternate Care Facility requires a great variety of skill sets; that’s quite obvious to most people. What isn’t so obvious is just how many of one skill set a person can find in a matter of two days and two floors worth of construction workers. After meeting Anthony Bell on Tuesday this week, the Low Voltage Technician from Memphis, I thought that was a pretty unique job title to be honest. I’d actually never heard of it before. Let me introduce you to two more low voltage technicians, Hunter Dunkin, who I found working on the second floor, and Nick Marcy, who I saw on a ladder gathering cable on the fourth floor.
Memphis Builders: Behind the mask

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 29, 2020
Walking around the Alternate Care Facility construction site, people are usually focused on what workers are doing, not so much the people themselves. And if you’re like me, you’re also very focused on the ground as you don’t want to trip and fall over something as simple as a little cord. But, it’s important to get to know the people doing the work. They are the ones making this facility a reality after all. They are also the people sacrificing time with their families, working 12 hours a day and seven days a week.
Thank you: Building a facility of hope

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 28, 2020
The team of people building a facility made to care for people who contract the COVID-19 virus are working around the clock to make sure that if our local hospitals can't handle the caseload at that time, no one gets turned away. We want to thank all of our workers out there making this alternate care center ha reality. No matter what part of the team a worker is on, each is important and contributes an invaluable knowledge and skill to this facility of hope and care.
Corps electric engineer ‘makes’ much needed shields

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 21, 2020
It’s no secret our country is experiencing a shortage of face masks. Ever since this virus was declared a pandemic, even those working in hospitals can’t seem to get their hands on the very medical supplies they need to do their day-to-day job. Some hear of the shortage and scramble to get their hands on whatever masks they can find, but not Navigational Electrical Engineer Jeffrey Farmer and the nonprofit group he’s apart of called the “Midsouth Makers.”
Power of the pump, no telework

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 20, 2020
While many people are at home working in front of a computer, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have people out in the field operating equipment and facilities that, at this point in time, cannot be controlled from a workstation at home. The Graham Burke Pumping Plant is one of those “pieces” of equipment that requires people to be on-site for safe operation. Pumping Plant Operator Leaderman William “Billy” Ray and Pumping Plant Operator John “Brady” Foran are two of those valuable employees who are called upon to run one of the Corps’ most valuable facilities.
Corps, multiple teams ready to construct Memphis ACF

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 19, 2020
As the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District continues to work in support of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) - and in coordination with other federal, state, local, tribal partners, and our prime contractor AECOM – to build Memphis' Alternate Care Facility and to synchronize the interagency response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, multiple teams came together yesterday to meet and prepare for a very busy month ahead.
Big Island, Below Senath seepage remediation projects awarded

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 16, 2020
The Memphis District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recently awarded Task Orders to construct two seepage remediation projects in Arkansas and in Missouri.
Social distancing, the MVM mission

By Jessica Haas Memphis District Published April 15, 2020
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has several recommendations in place to try and stop the spread of this monstrous virus, to include such measures as wearing a face mask when out in public and practicing what has become mandated in many states: social distancing. While social distancing and other precautions are in place for the right reasons, they can unfortunately have a challenging impact on business operations. Especially difficult is when your employees cannot do their job behind a computer. So what do they do?
Ready to Advertise despite COVID-19

By Jessica Haas, Public Affairs Specialist Memphis District Published April 14, 2020
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Memphis District recently met a ‘tasker’ milestone known as “Ready to Advertise” for the Clack and Norfolk Seepage Remediation Project, all while adapting to newly placed COVID-19 work procedures. About ten days before BCOE (Bidability, Constructability, Operability, and Environmental) certification, Project Delivery Team members Jeremy Ruffell, John Hudson, Kevin Keller, Conrad Stacks, Brian Johnson, Josh Koontz, and Andrew Smothers, along with many other USACE employees, were sent home for mass telework.