The Mississippi River and Tributaries project was authorized by the 1928 Flood Control Act. In the wake of the 1927 flood, it was deemed necessary to put into place a comprehensive, unified system of public works within the lower Mississippi Valley that would provide unprecedented protection from floods and an equally efficient navigation channel. The MR&T project has four major features: •Levees/floodwalls •Floodways •Channel improvement and stabilization •Tributary basin improvements These features work together to provide flood protection and navigation, and foster environmental protection and enhancement.