Floodwaters swamp trees and approach the Presidential Library, 2008/NPS

The National Park Service is developing construction design documents and preparing an environmental assessment for the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in Iowa for a project to restore and stabilize Hoover Creek for flood mitigation.

This project is needed to provide critical resource protection for the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, other buildings and structures at the historic site, and the historic site landscape, as well as archaeological sites. The implementation of the proposed project will provide the ability to better manage flood protection for frequent flood events within the National Historic Site, with consideration given to natural resources and historic resources.

This project would aid in the restoration of the riparian and proper functioning conditions along Hoover Creek in accordance with the General Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement for the historic site. Components of this project could include a flood storage detention basin, stream channel improvements to Hoover Creek, replacement of the Downey Street bridge for increased flood capacity, reconstruction of an historic retaining wall, and sanitary sewer relocation. In addition, excess soil from project work is being considered for use as sound mitigation berms in the reconstructed prairie, generally along Interstate 80.

There will be two opportunities to comment formally on the project - once during project scoping and again following release of the EA. The National Park Service is currently in the scoping phase of the proposed project and invites the public to submit written suggestions, comments, and concerns regarding the design for flood mitigation, stream stabilization, and restoration of Hoover Creek. The National Park Service will hold a public open house to provide the opportunity for members of the public to learn more about the project. The open house will be held on July 12, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the park visitor center located at 110 Parkside Drive, West Branch, Iowa 52358.

You can submit your comments and find more information about the project at the park’s PEPC website at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/parkHome.cfm?parkID=132h. The National Park Service will also be accepting comments at the open house or by mail to: Superintendent, Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, PO Box 607, West Branch, Iowa 52358. The opportunity to provide public comment to support the development of this project is currently open and will close August 3.