The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completed work Monday responding to a request for assistance from the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe to help with the tribe’s efforts to repair a flood risk reduction berm near Tokeland.

This assistance was part of an extension to the emergency declaration made last month. Seattle District Commander Col. Mark Geraldi declared an emergency Dec. 17 to stabilize the federally authorized berm that was under threat from heavy rain, storm surge and extreme high tides known as king tides. A Corps of Engineers direct response team placed 10,000 tons of protective rock over 1,800 linear feet between Dec. 18 and Jan. 13.

“The flood team reinforced critical areas and will be finishing up the work (Jan. 13),” said district Emergency Management Branch Chief Doug Weber.

Crews have been onsite since Jan. 8 conducting 24-hour operations working on both the low tide cycles.

“On behalf of the Shoalwater Bay Tribe, I am grateful to the Corps for their rapid and diligent response,” said Jesse Downs, Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe tribal administrator. “Their efforts have been integral to protecting our people and heritage here on this land.”

Public Law 84-99 enables the Corps to assist state and local authorities in flood fight activities and cost share in the repair of flood protection structures. The purpose is to prevent loss of life and minimize property damage associated with severe weather.

Private citizens seeking assistance should contact their local government offices.