News Release Manager

Corps acts on Reelfoot Spillway permit

Published Aug. 15, 2008
MEMPHIS, Tenn., August 15, 2008 – Following a thorough and comprehensive review, Col. Thomas P.
Smith, Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Memphis District, today made a decision to
extend to the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) a permit for their signature to construct a new spillway on Reelfoot Lake. The new spillway will replace the existing one that is in danger of failing.

Citing his authority under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, Col. Smith said he was convinced
that TDOT had met all criteria for approval.

“Pending their acceptance of the conditions of the permit, this means TDOT has met all
requirements to move forward on their project,” he said.

Col. Smith stressed that under the Regulatory process the Corps of Engineers’ role is solely that
of regulator for the permit.

“The project will be constructed by the State of Tennessee and other than to ensure compliance
with the conditions of the permit, the Corps of Engineers has no further part to play in it.”
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Release no. 08-18