Corps of Engineers wrapping up work near Tokeland

Published Jan. 13, 2020

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District, completed work responding to a request for assistance from the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe to help with the tribe’s efforts to repair a flood risk reduction berm near Tokeland, Washington. This assistance was part of an extension to the emergency declaration made last month.

Seattle District Commander Col. Mark Geraldi declared an emergency December 17 to stabilize the federally-authorized berm that was under threat from heavy rain, storm surge and extreme high tides known as king tides. A Corps of Engineers direct response team placed 10,000 tons of protective rock over 1,800 linear feet between December 18, 2019 and January 13, 2020.

“The flood team reinforced critical areas and will be finishing up the work today,” said district Emergency Management Branch Chief Doug Weber.

Crews have been onsite since January 8 conducting 24-hour operations working on both the low tide cycles.

“On behalf of the Shoalwater Bay Tribe, I am grateful to the Corps for their rapid and diligent response,” said Jesse Downs, Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe Tribal Administrator. “Their efforts have been integral to protecting our people and heritage here on this land.”

Public Law 84-99 enables the Corps to assist state and local authorities in flood fight activities and cost share in the repair of flood protection structures. The purpose is to prevent loss of life and minimize property damage associated with severe weather.

Private citizens seeking assistance should contact their local government offices. 


Contact
Public Affairs Office
206-764-3760
or
Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe - Mechele Johnson
360-267-8202

Release no. 20-002