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Hurricane Storm Damage Risk Reduction System
After Hurricane Katrina, this flood protection system was constructed at a cost of $14.5 billion. It is one of the largest in the world.
This story map describes all of the structures that compose the Hurricane Storm Damage Risk Reduction System. Using geographic maps, text, pictures and icons, it graphically displays the location of the system components and how they link together to provide flood protection for the Greater New Orleans area. Scroll down and click on the map icons to learn more.
The Flood Protection Authority manages all components of this system which include:
(*Includes 1.8 mile long Lake Borgne Surge Barrier)
Scroll down to see Navigation Structures
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The System
The system (HSDRRS) is one of the most technically advanced coastal flood protection systems in the world. Together, this system of barriers, sector gates, floodwalls, floodgates and levees provide a veritable “wall” around East Jefferson, Orleans and St. Bernard Parishes. The System significantly reduces the risk of flooding for over 1 million residents in the Greater New Orleans area from a 100- year storm. The 100-year level means reduced flood risk from a storm surge that has a 1% chance of occurring or being exceeded in any given year.
Lake Borgne Surge Barrier
Click on the RED boundary line to learn more about the navigation structure.
Considered one of the largest structures of its kind in the world.
Bayou Bienvenue Sector Gate
Click on the structure icon for more information.
This sector gate is left open for boat traffic unless a storm is approaching.
Bayou Dupre Sector Gate
Click on the structure icon for more information.
This sector gate is left open for boat traffic unless a storm is approaching.
Caernarvon Sector Gate
Click on the structure icon for more information.
This structure helps protect St. Bernard Parish from flooding due to tropical storms and hurricanes.
Seabrook Floodgate Complex
Click on the structure icon for more information.
Unless a storm is approaching this sector gate remains open for commercial boat traffic traveling between Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River.
Permanent Canal Closures and Pumps (PCCP)
Click on the structure icon for more information.
These pumps are so powerful that they could fill the Superdome with water every 90 minutes. The gates are closed as a tropical storm or hurricane approaches.
Bayou St. John Sector Gate
Click on the structure icon for more information.
Bayou St. John is a recreation hotspot for paddlers of all kinds. The gate is left open unless a storm is approaching.
Levees, Floodwalls, Floodgates
Click on the structure boundaries for more information.
These are maintained year-round. If the River is above flood stage, The Flood Fight Program begins. The Flood Authority inspects the levee’ integrity around the clock.