Many citizens of New England have benefited from the work of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Whether they live downstream from a flood damage reduction project in a river basin, or inland from a barrier-protected harbor mouth; whether they visit a park or recreation site operated by the Corps; or simply cross a bridge to Cape Cod, their lives are touched and improved by the work of the men and women of the Corps.

Many citizens interact more directly with the agency. For example, communities experiencing a water resource problem can apply to the Corps for assistance either directly or through their elected representatives.

The Corps of Engineers water resources development program exerts a significant impact on New England’s physical, economic, and social environment.

The citizens of New England have the opportunity to learn about the various projects and to determine how they can participate in decisions regarding present and future activities.

Before taking measures to resolve water resource problems, the New England District performs individual studies on each affected area to determine if a Civil Works project is feasible.

Each study examines a wide range of potential solutions based on economic and engineering practicality, acceptability, and impact on the environment.

Descriptions of water resource projects previously completed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont can be found under the Missions tab, under Water Resource Projects.

Through its continuing authorities programs, the Corps can address many local problems related to flood control, navigation, environmental restoration and erosion in a timely manner without specific Congressional approval. An overview of this program, by section can be found under the Missions tab, under Engineering/Planning.

Corps engineers from a variety of disciplines are available to work with communities in solving such problems, from analysis of the cause and design of a solution, to management of the construction and operation.

Other citizens interact with the Corps through its Regulatory/Permitting program which requires a permit for most work in waterways and wetlands in the region.

The Corps also regulates certain discharges associated with the excavation and grading within those waters.

Corps personnel are available to advise applicants about permit procedures and should be contacted well in advance of the anticipated start-up date.