USACE Announces Non-Breach Emergency at Columbia Lock and Dam

Vicksburg, Miss. – The US Army Corps of Engineers Vicksburg District has declared a non-breach emergency at the Columbia Lock and Dam located on the Ouachita River approximately seven miles upstream of Columbia, LA. This declaration allows the Corps to adjust water levels upstream and downstream of the lock and dam to investigate concerns while safely operating the structure for the navigation industry. As part of the declaration, the pool above Columbia Lock and Dam will be lowered by approximately three feet, while the pool below the dam will be raised by approximately two feet. This adjustment is expected to commence on 20 August 2024 and will proceed at a rate of approximately ½ foot per day.