U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Southwestern Division

12/28/2022

Falling into cold water is more than just an inconvenience, it's downright dangerous! Hypothermia is no joke. With the colder temperatures, we encourage you all to be safe. If you are boating, please wear your life jacket and stay warm.

12/21/2022

Newly released!

The Premiere Edition of the 2022-2023 “America's Engineers: The People, Programs, and Projects of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers” is now available.

America's Engineers features a mix of interviews, profiles, and special reports written by military engineering and environmental professionals; renowned journalists; and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers staff on subjects that range from USACE's current programs and projects to its more than two-hundred year history.

Check it out here: https://issuu.com/acemllc/docs/americas-engineers-2022-usace-magazine

12/19/2022

The Bobber the Water Safety Dog website, www.Bobber.info, is all decked out for the holidays. There are twinkling lights, a holiday cartoon, and a holiday ornament activity sheet all waiting for you to enjoy.

The ornaments are easy-to-make and are a creative way to promote water safety. They are only available for a limited time on the Bobber the Water Safety Dog website, kids of all ages can enjoy making these ornaments this holiday season.

Enjoy making and sharing the Bobber ornaments and thank you for all that you do to promote water safety!!!

12/08/2022

Galveston District Cartographer Kelsey Ciarrocca (right) receives a plaque commemorating her "Innovator of the Year" Award for 2022 from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Southwestern Division Acting Commander Col. James Schultze.
The Real Estate Division cartographer was named USACE’s “Innovator of the Year” for her pioneering work in creating interactive, real-time maps.
Read all about Kelsey's amazing innovation at https://www.swg.usace.army.mil/.../kelsey-ciarrocca.../.

Galveston District Cartographer Kelsey Ciarrocca (right) receives a plaque commemorating her "Innovator of the Year" Award for 2022 from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Southwestern Division Acting Commander Col. James Schultze.

The Real Estate Division cartographer was named USACE’s “Innovator of the Year” for her pioneering work in creating interactive, real-time maps.

Read all about Kelsey's amazing innovation at https://www.swg.usace.army.mil/Media/News-Stories/Article/3125901/kelsey-ciarrocca-named-usace-innovator-of-the-year/.

12/08/2022

As we get closer to the busiest holiday travel time of the year, it's important to make sure you stay safe while on the roads!
Check out the graphic below for some safety tips.

12/07/2022

Join the Southwestern Division "Pacesetters" this Saturday as we cheer on the Army Black Knights football team. Go Army! Beat Navy!

https://www.dvidshub.net/video/867045/go-army

12/05/2022

Temple’s Lake Park at Belton Lake is scheduled to close beginning Thursday, December 8. During the closure, pedestrian and vehicle access will be restricted to allow road work to take place. As work is completed and areas are safe to enter, parts of the park will be re-opened to the public on a case-by-case basis. Other boat ramps around the lake including the ramp at Westcliff Park and Belton Lakeview Park will remain open and accessible throughout the winter. Please call the Belton Lake Office at 254-742-3050 or visit the Belton Lake website at https://www.swf-wc.usace.army.mil/belton/ for more information on closures.

12/05/2022

With temperatures continuing to drop around the region, it's time to think about some winter water safety. What's a great way to stay warm and be water safe during the winter months? A Float Coat!
A flotation jacket aka float coat is a valuable piece of clothing to have, especially when boating during the colder months. Investing in a U.S. Coast Guard approved float coat could provide additional protection from cold-water immersion if you fall into the water.

With temperatures continuing to drop around the region, it's time to think about some winter water safety. What's a great way to stay warm and be water safe during the winter months? A Float Coat!

A flotation jacket aka float coat is a valuable piece of clothing to have, especially when boating during the colder months. Investing in a U.S. Coast Guard approved float coat could provide additional protection from cold-water immersion if you fall into the water.

12/02/2022

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Galveston District and members of the Inland Waterways Users Board (IWUB) visited the Brazos River Floodgates November 30 to discuss the Brazos River Crossing portion of the Brazos River Flood Gates – Colorado River Locks Project. The visit is in conjunction with the 98th IWUB board meeting taking place this week in Galveston, Texas.
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Jaime A. Pinkham and Deputy Commanding General for Civil Works and Emergency Operations Maj. Gen. William H. Graham, Jr., and the IWUB team were on hand to provide analytical support on a variety of topics requested by members of the IWUB board, USACE Headquarters, and field operating agencies as they work to develop the draft IWUB report to Congress.

12/02/2022

It's and we are so thankful to be a huge part of military construction projects throughout our district. Tulsa District Commander, Col. Timothy Hudson joined many other distinguished guests during a ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday afternoon at Sheppard Air Force Base, TX.

The ceremony, which was attended by several hundred airman and community partners celebrated the recent opening of the base's new medical treatment facility.

Construction of the state of the art medical facility was managed by Tulsa District Corps of Engineers Engineering and Construction branch.

12/02/2022

Little Rock District Commander, Col. Damon Knarr, represented USACE at a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Little Rock Air Force Base Visiting Quarters on Nov. 30. Knarr reminded the audience that the Little Rock District highly values our relationship with other branches of service and that this project supports the most important asset in today’s military-the people that stand in service to the nation. The new 4-story, 136,322 square foot VQ building will include 250 guest rooms and includes guest laundry facilities, housekeeping function spaces, multifunctional lobby, coffee shop, business center, conference rooms, exercise room, restrooms and other exterior improvements.

12/01/2022

SWD logistics team receives USACE Commander's Excellence Award

The Southwestern Division Regional Logistics Management team was presented the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Commander’s Logistics Excellence Award for meritorious service from October 2021 to September 2022 by Col. Michael C. McCaskey, director of the USACE Directorate of Logistics.

Accepting the award from McCaskey and representing the 26 regionally assigned team members during the award period were, Ron Richards, SWD Regional Logistics Manager/G-4, Sydney White, SWD Logistics Management Specialist, Sheryl White, SWD Property Book Officer, Brenda Hunt, SWD Logistics Management Specialist and John Davis, Fort Worth District General Supply Specialist.

A few of the team’s achievements were, reducing the Division’s General Service Administration vehicle fleet by 23 percent, 98 percent completion of annual personal property inventories, surpassing the USACE goal of 50 percent and for exceptional management of the Galveston District’s agency owned facility.

11/29/2022

Southwestern Division Commander Col. James Schultze visited the Trinity Regional and Grapevine Lake Offices last week to recognize several employees for their hard work. Schultze recognized Nick Wilson, Trinity Environmental Stewardship Business Line Manager and Chandler Sanford, Lewisville Lake Park Ranger for their successful efforts and acts of heroism on May 29, 2022, when they assisted in the rescue of 10 people after their boat capsized on Lewisville Lake.

In addition, Schultze recognized Sallie Wilson, Lewisville Lake administrative support specialist for going above and beyond in support of several lakes across the Trinity Project. Wilson assists the staff at those lakes with timekeeping, procurement of supplies and materials and countless other daily tasks. As a valued team member, she strives to accomplish her assigned duties and is eager to assist others without question. She always exemplifies the Corps values of Selfless Service and Loyalty.

Angel Pride, Civil Engineer Technician at Grapevine Lake, although relatively new to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, she was recognized for actively resolving issues and establishing processes for improved customer service. She is the consolidated duty safety officer for Grapevine Lake and serves on the Trinity Safety team. She also volunteered to assist the Fort Worth District Safety Office by revamping the Blood-borne Pathogen training. Her prior career as a Registered Nurse brings a wealth of knowledge to the agency.

11/28/2022

We’re Hiring!

The Southwestern Division is looking for a new team member to serve as the National Emergency Preparedness Program, Civil Planner. This is a Program Manager (Civil Disaster Contingency), GS-0340-13 position within the Southwestern Emergency Management Division located in Dallas, Texas. The Southwestern Division covers four Districts and works closely with FEMA Region 6. The position announcement will close on December 8.

For more information or to apply go to: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/690684600

11/16/2022

Every November, we observe National American Indian Heritage Month. joins the Nation in recognizing the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of American Indians and Alaskan Natives. We also take this time to honor the contributions and sacrifices of American Indians and Alaskan Natives within our workforce and communities who serve with great honor, dedication and distinction.

11/15/2022

Congratulations

Congratulations to our latest graduates from the ranger training program. Tiffany Natividad from Fort Gibson, Ashley Novar from Keystone Lake and Randi Clifton from Oologah Lake!

During the two-year program, trainees must attend numerous training courses, complete three 30-day temporary duty assignments with other lake projects or other groups within the district such as hydropower or navigation. The trainees must also complete a job shadow, participate in a periodic inspection on a dam or lock and participate in at least 6 water safety events during the program.

11/12/2022

Thank you to all our veterans!!

Thank you, Jay Townsend for your service!
Jay has been proudly serving in the U.S. Army Reserve since 2004 and is the Chief of Public Affairs for the Little Rock District.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Southwestern Division
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Headquarters

11/12/2022

11/07/2022

Thank you, Leah White for your service!
Leah proudly served in the U.S. Navy for 3 years and is currently an Administrative Officer with the Little Rock District.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Southwestern Division
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Headquarters

11/02/2022

USACE supports FEMA, Florida debris collection

In case you missed it!

11/02/2022

11/01/2022

11/01/2022

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced that it will waive day use fees at its more than 2,850 USACE-operated recreation areas nationwide in observance of Veterans Day, November 11.

The waiver covers fees for boat launch ramps and swimming beaches. The waiver does not apply to camping and camping-related services, or fees for specialized facilities (group picnic shelters) and events. Other agencies that manage recreation areas on USACE lands are encouraged, but not required, to offer the waiver in the areas that they manage.

Learn more: https://www.usace.army.mil/.../News.../Article/3204436

10/31/2022

Meet more of our Veterans on the Tulsa District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers page.

10/31/2022

10/31/2022

10/29/2022

Check out the in Galveston District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers!

10/24/2022

Celebrating Bat Week with our Little Rock District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers October 24-31.

Did you know Bat week is October 24-31?
Bat week is an international celebration of the role of bats in nature. These flying mammals are important to the health of our planet.

Bats have been on Earth for more than 50 million years. With more than 1,400 species, they are the second largest order of mammals, and are widely dispersed across six continents.

Globally, bats provide vital ecosystem services in the form of insect pest consumption, plant pollination, and seed dispersal, making them essential to the health of global ecosystems.

Check out this link to make your own “Bat Pollinator Field Guide”. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEXqDBrIbx8&t=2s

10/20/2022

10/19/2022

Every October, we observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). During this month we commemorate the many contributions of individuals with disabilities to America’s workplaces and economy. It is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to recruit, retain, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities within our workforce.

10/18/2022

Southwestern Division Renee Roland, Civil Works and Integration Division Program Manager and Tulsa District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Christopher Bartlett, High Voltage Electrician at Webber Falls Remote Plant, recently deployed in support of Hurricane Ian. Roland and Bartlett work as Operation Blue Roof Program, remote quality assurance representatives, in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Hurricane Ian Recovery Office in Sarasota, Fla.

10/17/2022

Great information from our Little Rock District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers team!

Please remember to stay safe while hunting. Check out the image below from our friends at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for some treestand safety tips!

10/14/2022

Great work by our Galveston team and partners on this critical project that will reduce the risk of coastal storm surge to communities, businesses and industry in Orange, Jefferson and Brazoria Counties.

10/14/2022

Wearing a life jacket whenever you’re hunting, fishing, boating, swimming, or playing in open water (lakes, rivers etc.) helps ensure that you can keep on living the good life enjoying the water.

10/13/2022

Join us in celebrating 247 years of the U.S. Navy! Thank you for your honor, courage and commitment to defending our nation.

10/13/2022

SWG gets a brief history, taste of Hispanic cuisine

Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month across the region.

As part of its National Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) celebration, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Galveston District held a special presentation—and tasting—on Hispanic cuisine, October 12.

10/11/2022

Updated guidance for designing, constructing, and maintaining relief wells is available for review. Engineer Manual 1110-2-1914, “Design, Construction, and Maintenance of Relief Wells,” first published in 1992, has been updated to include modern practices for relief wells.

Input from those who play a role in designing, constructing, or maintaining structures that include relief wells is important to USACE and will help ensure the guidance is clear and implementable.

More information is available at our website, https://www.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-
Works/Levee-Safety-Program/, or by emailing [email protected].

10/06/2022

Did you know many flood risk management structures have relief wells?

Relief wells help relieve pressure created by water wanting to pass from one side of the project to the other. They play an important role in levees or dams made from earthen material and help keep the pressure off the structure so it can perform as designed.

10/03/2022

Halloween is just around the corner! Check out www.Bobber.info for some awesome pumpkin stencils. Remember, if you are on or near open water, play it safe and wear your life jacket.

Halloween is coming soon so it's pumpkin carving time! There are some awesome pumpkin stencils available on www.Bobber.info. Have Fun and remember to always watch your children and have them wear a life jacket while in, on, or near open water (lakes, rivers, ponds, etc.).

09/29/2022

If you are a Veteran or are concerned about a Veteran who is in distress, the Veterans Crisis Line at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/ is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by phone Dial 988, then Press 1; text message (838255); or online chat at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat