NEW ORLEANS – In collaboration with our partners at the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority – West (SLFPA-W) the New Orleans District closed the Harvey Canal gates at approximately 8:30 this morning.
The gates took about 8 - 10 minutes to close and, once closed, we began pumping water from the canal into the lake.
A three person team located at the structure is responsible for operating the gates and pumps from the safe room.
The Corps’ pumps have a maximum combined capacity of 550 cubic feet per second at the Harvey Ave. Canal.
We work closely with the SLFPA-W to maximize their drainage capacity while ensuring public safety by maintaining the safe water elevation.