After what was deemed an exceptional turnaround, the South Branch Blacklick Creek Flood Protection Project in Vintondale, Cambria County, now boasts the highest rating in the federal levee rating system after a joint inspection by the state Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

“Borough officials and the local community recognize the importance of ensuring their levee is appropriately operated and maintained,” Deputy Secretary for Water Management Cathy Curran Myers said. “Their efforts will go a long way in reducing risk and increasing public safety for the residents of Vintondale.”

Since 2003, the project had been rated as unacceptable due to overgrown vegetation, improper maintenance and a leakage path that resulted after a sewer main was installed through the levee. Because of these deficiencies, the Vintondale project was highlighted on the U.S. Army Corps’ February list of unacceptably maintained levees.

In May 2006, DEP met with borough officials and emphasized the need to address these concerns and work to remove vegetation soon began.

In November 2006, DEP directed the local sewer authority to correct the encroachment through the levee. The gravel backfill was removed and replaced with impermeable fill to eliminate the potential flow path through the levee and reestablish its integrity.

On June 12, DEP and the Army Corps conducted a joint inspection of the Vintondale flood protection project. Inspectors viewed the work of the Borough of Vintondale staff, volunteers and work release prisoners to cut and remove vegetation along the levee and overhaul the sluice and flap gates, which allow the levee to shut properly during a high water event.

With the vegetation under control, the sluice and flap gates maintained and the levee encroachment corrected, the engineering corps and state now deem the project acceptable. With the acceptable rating, the project is once again eligible for federal and state flood assistance programs.

For more information, visit DEP’s Flood Protection webpage.

8/3/2007