U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Southwestern Division

07/13/2026

Before heading out on the water, check the weather forecast and file a float plan with a trusted person who is not on the trip. Carry current maps or nautical charts of the waterways you’ll be traveling, along with a weather radio or another reliable device to monitor changing conditions while boating.

If you encounter an unexpected storm, ensure everyone is wearing a properly fitted life jacket. Have passengers sit low in the boat near the centerline to help maintain stability. Reduce speed and navigate with the bow pointed into the waves at approximately a 45-degree angle. If operating a personal watercraft, approach waves head-on. These precautions can help improve control of the vessel and reduce the risk of capsizing in rough conditions.

Get your float plan here:

07/10/2026

Most people assume water will break their fall. In reality, at high speeds, water can hit as hard as concrete. A single cliff jump can result in life-changing injuries or death, whether from the force of impact or unseen rocks and debris below the surface.

This video is a dramatization of what can and does happen when peop...

07/09/2026

With the 4th of July weekend behind us, keep in mind on average, July has the highest number of drownings of any month. It’s also an extremely busy time of year on our nation’s waterways, so please always wear your life jacket and engine cutoff device. Always boat sober, stay alert, and operate your vessel in a safe, courteous, and responsible manner.

07/02/2026

Some promises are written in ink. Ours is written in earth and steel.

For 250 years, Army engineers have built America's way forward. Across rivers. Through conflict. After disaster. Into recovery.

Not for recognition. For the nation.

What's next?

06/30/2026

A CORNERSTONE OF THE INLAND WATERWAY. For over 50 years, USACE has operated Webbers Falls Lock and Dam to keep commercial cargo moving. This multi-purpose facility delivers critical and sustains regional economic resilience.

Authorized in the 1940s and fully operational by 1973, this Tulsa District project continues to execute its missions of navigation, hydroelectric power, and environmental stewardship in Oklahoma. Read the full history:
https://swt.usace.army.mil/Locations/Tulsa-District-Lakes/Oklahoma/Webbers-Falls-Lock-and-Dam/

06/30/2026

OPERATIONAL READINESS. Sustaining our inland requires active, hands-on leadership. is committed to keeping key maritime corridors operational, ensuring that regional cargo and commercial vessel traffic continue to move efficiently.

USACE Little Rock District Commander Col. Tom Allard recently visited Sanders Lock and Dam and the Pine Bluff Marine Terminal. He met with on-site teams to observe river operations and discuss ongoing mission priorities for the system.
http://swl.usace.army.mil

06/30/2026

HOLDING BACK THE SULPHUR RIVER. Deliberate impoundment began at Wright Patman Lake in June 1956. This massive reservoir was built to manage the volatile Sulphur River basin, transforming a flood-prone region into a stable source of water supply and recreation.

Located near Texarkana, Texas, Wright Patman Dam spans multiple counties to manage flood risk for local communities. This enduring USACE project continues to deliver critical resource management seven decades after its completion.

http://swf.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes/Wright-Patman-Lake/

06/30/2026

DRIVING ENERGY DOMINANCE. USACE has completed the Brazos Island Harbor project. Deepening the channel by 10 feet establishes the Port of Brownsville as a premier deep-draft gateway, accelerating shipping efficiency & energy exports.

Read full article at https://www.dvidshub.net/news/568691/usace-partners-deliver-deeper-brownsville-channel-built-bigger-ships-greater-global-trade