Congressman Steven Palazzo (MS-4) today commented on the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) decision to re-open the Bonnet Carré Spillway, which could bring more devastating impacts to the Gulf Coast region following the spillway’s destructive 123-day opening in 2019.
“While I appreciate the Corps better communicating with my office their decision to open the spillway, I am disappointed they did not consider alternative options, like the Morganza Spillway. As weather and climate factors play a role, the Corps has provided me insight on what needs to be done to support updating their archaic flood control manuals so they can reflect new and current environmental situations. I remain committed to pushing legislation and critical funding that will reduce the harmful impacts on the Mississippi coast.”
Palazzo has been actively engaged in expressing concerns of Mississippians to the USACE related to spillway openings. He has introduced legislation to streamline federal fishery disaster requests. In February of this year, Palazzo sent a letter to the USACE, urging them to investigate and undertake proactive water management approaches by using the Morganza Spillway and Old River Control Structure spillways.
Press Release
4/3/2020
