Office of Public Works

Water Resources activities have historically been centered on flood control efforts such as levees and other flood control structures. Because of state and federal agencies efforts, 75% of Louisiana's population and 60% of the state's agricultural products are protected by levees. The Office of Public Works provides engineering and technical assistance to eight non-coastal levee districts and provides engineering and technical assistance for their levee inspection activities.

The Office of Public Works is also given statewide responsibility to provide for the effective administration and implementation of public works for flood control, dam safety, reservoir development and projects related to controlling, developing, conserving and protecting Louisiana's vast water resources, to meet the current and future needs of the citizens of the state. In doing this, the office has partnered with the Office of Community Development Disaster Recovery Unit and other state agencies to create the Louisiana Watershed Initiative to reduce flood risk through a watershed based approach.