​Steigerwald Levee Setback Design and Construction, Washougal, Washington
CCI-LT provided geotechnical engineering services to the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership (LCEP) for the design and permitting of a large-scale floodplain reconnection and flood damage reduction project along the Lower Columbia River at the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge. The floodplain restoration measures include breaching 2.2 miles of existing levees, constructing two setback levees up to 30 feet tall, and reconnecting nearly 1,000 acres of wetland and riparian floodplain habitat.

Our team was responsible for completing geotechnical investigations and analysis to support the design, permitting assistance, and construction of the new setback levees, a floodwall & closure structure, and pedestrian bridges that will protect the Port of Camas-Washougal’s facilities and private properties from flooding. The project involved close cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Portland District to obtain approval for modifying the levee through the Section 408 permit application process.
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Map of the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge showcasing trails, levee construction, and existing infrastructure.
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Project Highlights
​Our team of geotechnical engineers successfully navigated the challenges of restoring the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge. We designed and implemented a solution that involved breaching existing levees, constructing new ones, and restoring wetland habitat. Our expertise in geotechnical engineering, coupled with our ability to work collaboratively with government agencies and other stakeholders, ensured the project's success. This project demonstrates our commitment to environmental stewardship and our ability to deliver results even in the most demanding conditions.
Owner: Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership
More Information: Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership: Steigerwald Reconnection Project