In West Sacramento, where the Sacramento River poses ongoing flood risks, the Southport Levee Improvement Project stands as a landmark effort in resilient infrastructure. This $180 million initiative by the West Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency (WSAFCA) not only strengthened flood defenses but also restored vital ecosystem habitat. Morrow Surveying played a key role in delivering precise surveying services that ensured the project’s success.
The Challenge
The existing levee system, over a century old in parts, faced critical issues with seepage, stability, and erosion. The solution required setting back nearly 6 miles of levee, breaching the old structure in strategic locations, and creating over 100 acres of new floodplain habitat, all while maintaining 100-year flood protection for the community.
Our Approach
Morrow Surveying provided comprehensive land surveying support, including detailed topographic surveys, boundary determinations, construction staking, and aerial mapping. Using advanced drone technology and high-precision GPS equipment, our team mapped the complex riverine terrain, ensuring accurate alignment for the new setback levee and habitat restoration zones. This precision was essential for coordinating with engineers and contractors on this multi-benefit flood and ecosystem project.
Results
The completed project reduced flood risk for thousands of residents, restored 212 acres of habitat (with a net gain of 114 acres), and earned national recognition, including an Envision Platinum award for sustainable infrastructure. Our accurate surveys helped keep construction on track, minimizing delays and cost overruns in this challenging environment.
Key Takeaways
Projects like Southport demonstrate how expert surveying bridges engineering and environmental goals. If you’re planning infrastructure improvements in Northern California, contact Morrow Surveying today for a quote, we bring the precision needed to protect communities and ecosystems alike.
