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Section 103: Beach Restoration and Shoreline Protection

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Published Jan. 18, 2024
Updated: Nov. 12, 2024
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Section 103 of the 1962 River and Harbor Act authorizes the Corps of Engineers to study, design, and construct small coastal storm damage reduction projects in partnership with non-Federal government agencies, such as cities, counties, special authorities, or units of state government. Projects are planned and designed under this authority to provide the same complete storm damage reduction project that would be provided under specific congressional authorizations. The maximum Federal cost for planning, design, and construction of any one project is $10,000,000. Each project must be economically justified, environmentally sound, and technically feasible. Hurricane and storm damage reduction projects are not limited to any particular type of improvement. Beach nourishment (structural) and floodproofing (non-structural)are examples of storm damage reduction projects constructed utilizing the Section 103 authority.

Cost Sharing Requirements.  The Feasibility Study is 100 percent federally funded up to $100,000. Costs over $100,000 are shared equally with the non-federal sponsor. Up to one-half of the non-federal share can be in the form of in-kind services. Costs for preparation of plans and specifications and construction are shared at 65 percent federal/35 percent non-federal. The non-federal share of construction consists of provision of any necessary lands, easements, rights-of-way, relocations and disposal areas (LERRD), plus a cash contribution of 5 percent of the total project costs. In the event that the value of LERRD, plus 5 percent cash, does not equal at least 35 percent of the total project cost, the non-federal sponsor must contribute additional cash to equal 35 percent.

Project Process.  The Corps conducts an initial appraisal early in the Feasibility Study to determine whether the project meets program criteria and provides a basis for determining scope and cost of an entire feasibility study. The solution must be economically feasible and environmentally acceptable. If an acceptable alternative is identified in the feasibility study, the Corps prepares plans and specifications, then manages construction of the project.

 

Study Cost

The feasibility study is 100 percent federally funded up to $100,000. Costs over the $100,000 are shared 50/50 with the non-federal sponsor.

Project Cost

Final design (plans and specifications) and construction cost are 65 percent Federal 35 percent non-Federal.

 

How to Request Assistance. Requests for assistance should be in the form of a letter (see sample provided below) describing the location and nature of the problem and requesting assistance under the program. The request should be submitted by a state or local government agency to your local district planning chief. 

{LETTERHEAD OF LOCAL SPONSOR}

{LETTEHEAD OF Local USACE District Office}

To Whom It May Concern:

This letter is to seek the assistance of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under (Reference the authority under which assistance is requested and identify the type and location of the problem.)

(Briefly describe your perception of the nature and severity of the problem.)

(Briefly describe the known issues which would affect the acceptability of any recommended solutions, from the perspective of municipal and local governments, and/or the public.)

We are aware as local sponsor that we will assume costs for lands, easements, right-of-way, relocations and disposal areas (LERRD) and/or assume costs to demonstrate ownership of such.  We also will assume responsibility for any operation and maintenance of the project. Your consideration of this request will be appreciated.  Please contact (name, address, telephone, etc.) for further coordination.  

The [NAME OF AGENCY OR COMMUNITY] has designated [NAME OF LOCAL CONTACT AT AGENCY AND PHONE NUMBER] as the point of contact for this project.

 Sincerely,

{AGENCY OFFICIAL} 

 


Project Planning Services for Water Resources

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) provides expert Project Planning Services to help communities across the Great Lakes and Ohio River region address complex water resource needs. Our planning approach combines environmental expertise, engineering, and community collaboration to create solutions that protect people, enhance ecosystems, and support local economies.

Explore the services we offer to learn how we can support your project.

Our Services

Flood Risk Management
USACE helps communities develop strategies to reduce the impact of flooding through projects that manage floodplains, strengthen infrastructure, and improve resilience. [Link to detailed page or more info]

Ecosystem Restoration
We partner with local organizations to restore vital ecosystems, including wetlands and habitats for wildlife, ensuring sustainable environmental benefits. [Link to learn more about restoration projects]

Shoreline and Streambank Protection
Our team works to protect rivers, streams, and coastlines from erosion, helping communities maintain safe, stable shorelines and waterways. [Link for further details]

Harbor and Navigation Development
From dredging to channel improvements, USACE supports harbor projects that enhance waterway navigation, promoting safe and efficient transportation. [Link to navigation services]

Planning Assistance to States and Tribes
USACE offers technical support and guidance to states and tribal governments, assisting with water resource planning and management tailored to their unique needs. [Link to assistance programs]

How We Plan Projects

Each project we undertake follows a six-step planning process to ensure it meets community needs and complies with environmental and federal standards:

  1. Identify Problems and Opportunities
  2. Inventory and Forecast Conditions
  3. Formulate Alternative Plans
  4. Evaluate Effects of Alternative Plans
  5. Compare Alternative Plans
  6. Select Recommended Plan

Our planners work closely with partners at every stage to ensure that proposed solutions are practical, sustainable, and community focused.

Why Partner with USACE?

With a wealth of expertise in water resources and a commitment to sustainable development, USACE is uniquely equipped to support local and regional projects. Our planning services provide access to federal resources, environmental compliance guidance, and a team of professionals dedicated to long-term water resource solutions.

Getting Started

Ready to start planning your project? Contact us to learn more about our services and discuss your water resource needs. Our team is here to help you every step of the way—from project concept to completion.

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