Corps certifies Pearl River levees

JACKSON — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says the Pearl River levees in Hinds and Rankin counties meet the requirements for certification for the 100-year flood.

Corps officials say certification for the east and west banks will remain valid for a period not to exceed 10 years.

The corps recently completed a six-month evaluation of the levees.

Corps officials say the certification does not assure that the levees will completely reduce flood risks.

The 11.4 miles of existing levees were constructed in 1968 and protect about 5,870 acres in Rankin County and 800 acres in Hinds County.

The corps has a recommended comprehensive levee plan that will extend the existing levees 21.9 miles. Officials say this will reduce flood risk for an additional 5,115 acres, or eight square miles.