Gavins Point Dam spillway and powerhouse are photographed April 9, 2025. The Gavins Point Dam and Lewis & Clark Lake (the reservoir behind the dam) straddle the Nebraska/South Dakota border and are nestled in the chalkstone-lined valley of the Missouri River and has grown into one of the most popular recreation spots in the Great Plains. The dam consists of an earthen embankment, a powerhouse, and 14 gates on a concrete-lined spillway. During normal operations, USACE releases water through the powerhouse to generate power and balance reservoir levels for other uses.
Civil Works

Our mission is to provide national leadership and expert direction in the planning, design, construction, operation and stewardship of the Nation’s water resources infrastructure.

Civil Works
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Civil Works Directorate

Our mission is to provide national leadership and expert direction in the planning, design, construction, operation and stewardship of the Nation’s water resources infrastructure. We deliver sustainable solutions for flood risk reduction, navigation, ecosystem restoration, emergency response and water management that enhance public safety, economic vitality and environmental resilience. Our mission areas support the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program and its partners in advancing safe, resilient, and environmentally responsible water resource systems for the American people.

USACE's Dam and Levee Safety programs focus on the integrity and reliability of these structures to protect the public. This involves regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure that levees are properly operated and maintained. These programs aim to reduce flood risk to communities living and working behind these structures, making public safety the number one priority.

Levee Safety Program
Dam Safety Program

USACE's Navigation support provides safe, reliable, and efficient waterborne transportation systems. This is achieved through the study, construction, and maintenance of harbors, channels, and waterways. The program also promotes the beneficial use of dredged material for environmental restoration and storm protection.

Navigation
Beneficial Use

USACE's Project Planning support provides a framework for developing and evaluating water resources projects. This process involves identifying problems and opportunities, forecasting future conditions, and formulating and evaluating alternative plans. The goal is to ensure that recommended actions provide economic, environmental, and social value. 

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USACE is a major provider of outdoor recreation opportunities at its lakes and river projects. The Recreation program offers a wide range of facilities and activities, including picnic areas, beaches, boat launches, and trails. While recreation is often a secondary benefit of water resource projects, it provides significant value to the public.

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The USACE Regulatory Program protects the nation's aquatic resources while allowing for reasonable development. The program evaluates permit applications for construction activities in waters of the United States, including wetlands, under the authority of the Clean Water Act and the Rivers and Harbors Act.

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USACE is the largest generator of hydropower in the United States, with 75 power-producing dams. The Hydropower program provides a reliable source of clean, renewable energy, which reduces dependence on fossil fuels. Revenue from hydropower sales helps to fund the operation and maintenance of the hydropower facilities.

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USACE's Flood and Coastal Storm Risk Management mission is to reduce threats to life and property from inland flooding and coastal storms. This involves the development of solutions such as levees, floodwalls, and non-structural measures like land acquisition and flood proofing. The program emphasizes a comprehensive approach to managing flood risk in collaboration with other agencies and stakeholders, including providing technical assistance on qualifying projects.

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USACE develops and disseminates policy and guidance across its Civil Works mission areas. These policies ensure consistency and effectiveness in the planning, design, construction, and operation of water resources projects. They cover a wide range of topics, including safety standards, environmental compliance, and cost-sharing agreements.

Policy and Guidance
Budget
Supplemental Program
Tribal Nations

Explore Civil Works National Impacts

Infographic of Civil Works National Impacts