The word “levee” is derived from the French word “lever,” which means “to raise.” The word levee was brought into the English language through its use in connection with the Louisiana Purchase.
It is believed that the first use of levees for flood protection occurred more than 3,000 years ago in Egypt. Approximately 600 miles of levees were built along the left bank of the Nile River.
Currently, two of the largest levee systems in the world are constructed along the Mississippi and the Sacramento Rivers. Millions of people and billions of dollars of commerce and property are protected by these systems.
If you are a current subscriber,login hereto access this content.
If you would like to become a subscriber, please visit ushere.
