WASHINGTON  -  U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson’s (MO-08) Chief of Staff, Lloyd Smith, today presented her testimony about Corps of Engineers work and planned flood control projects to the Mississippi River Commission in New Madrid, MO.  Through Smith, Emerson promised her continued support for essential flood control projects in the face of budget cuts to the Corps.

 

“The economic well-being and very existence of this area depend upon the work of the Corps.  In the House and the Senate, you have strong advocates in Senator Bond, Senator Talent, and me,” read Emerson’s testimony.

 

Emerson also addressed the added concerns of security for inland U.S. ports: “As a member of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, I also have worked hard to made sure that security on our inland waterways and ports is improved.  Everything from petroleum to chemicals to agriculture exports moves along our waterway system.  We must put the safeguards in place to protect these vital arteries of commerce.”

 

Smith then noted the projects Emerson has emphasized and advocated in Congress and offered brief updates on each: Perry County Levee – Bois Brule Project; Cape Girardeau Floodwall and Pumping Stations; Commerce to Birds Point Levee; St. Johns-New Madrid Floodway Project; New Madrid Riverfront; Elk Chute; St. Francis River – Highway 90; and Lake Wappapello Road Relocations and Improvement.