83 years after the federal government approved plans to protect the south Delta area of Mississippi from flooding, efforts to construct the “Yazoo pumps” could soon come to fruition.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) signed a landmark record of decision on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the efforts to address flooding and environmental challenges in the region. Maj. Gen. Kimberly A. Peeples, the commander of the USACE’s Mississippi Valley Division, etched her name on the 2024 Yazoo Backwater Study Area water management plan to get the ball rolling on long-awaited improvements.
The corps’ decision now paves the way for highly-anticipated pumps to be built to protect those in the region from flooding, which impedes farmers’ ability to cultivate crops. After decades of public outcry over the devastating effects of flooding, officials with the USACE worked with federal environmental regulators to ensure a flood control plan complied with federal requirements.
Today, we took another huge step forward in our fight to Finish The Pumps!
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers signed a Record of Decision, clearing the way for the construction of the pumps.
Thanks to Senators @cindyhydesmith and @SenatorWicker, @VicksburgUSACE, and YOU for… pic.twitter.com/MJ56gob7xi
— Governor Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) January 17, 2025
Officials’ plan includes the installation of high-volume pumps at the Steele Bayou Water Control Structure and managing water levels to the 90-foot elevation mark during crop season and the 93-foot elevation mark during non-crop season.
Per a release from the USACE, a nonstructural feature will be implemented to address flood impacts on properties in impacted areas, which includes a voluntary acquisition program for affected structures and agricultural lands, along with options for floodproofing or raising structures.
“Reaching this milestone is a testament to the technical expertise, dedication, and collaboration of our team. This record of decision reflects our shared commitment to serving the Yazoo Backwater community and to finding solutions to a longstanding issue that has affected our Mississippi Delta communities for decades,” said Col. Jeremiah Gipson, commander of the USACE Vicksburg District. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve
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