1. A spillway/floodway is a structure used to provide for the controlled release of water flows from a dam or levee into a downstream area. Four floodways were build along the Mississippi River after the record floods of 1927. Why might the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers open the Morganza Floodway in Louisiana this weekend?

2. What negative impact would the opening of the Morganza have on the surrounding area?

3. What would happen if the spillways were not opened?

4. Aside from flooding residents' homes and businesses, what negative impact is the surging Mississippi having on the area?

5. Watch the videos under "Resources" below.
a) What do you think of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers flood management program (spillways/levees etc.) on the Mississippi? Explain your answer.
b) Should the Army Corps of Engineers open the Morganza floodway? Explain your answer.