EP 1130-2-550
15 Nov 96
CHAPTER 11 - SEAPLANE OPERATIONS ON CIVIL WORKS WATER RESOURCES
DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
11-1. Purpose. This chapter establishes guidance for seaplane operations at civil works water
resource projects in order to protect project resources, the integrity of all authorized uses of
Corps projects, and the safety of all users of the lake projects.
11-2. Guidance.
a. The operation of seaplanes is allowable in accordance with ER 1130-2-550. In
determining sites for potential seaplane operations, the District Commander shall:
(1) Examine and investigate each Corps project within his/her district which a seaplane
operator could conceivably attempt to use for seaplane operations, and determine those projects,
or portions thereof, in which seaplane operations should be prohibited. Seaplane operations at
water resource development projects administered by the Commander, HQUSACE may involve
hazards including, but not limited to, conflicting recreational activities, floating debris, and
underwater hazards, which may be accentuated by the normal fluctuations of water levels.
(2) Establish such restrictions on seaplane operations as he deems necessary or desirable
in accordance with this chapter and ER 1130-2-550. Seaplane takeoff and landing maneuvers
within specified distances of the shoreline, bridges, causeways, water utility crossings, dams, and
similar structures should be prohibited.
(3) Prior to concluding any such examination and investigation, consult with the FAA,
appropriate state aeronautical agency, lessee or licensee of outgranted lands, the Coast Guard,
state boating law administrators, aeronautical associations, and use his best efforts to consult with
other interested or affected public authorities and private interests for their guidance, particularly
for those projects which are regularly used by the public for recreational purposes or are located
in the vicinity of actively used airports, air fields, or densely populated areas. News releases,
public notices, and congressional liaison should be used. Public hearings are encouraged.
(4) In making his investigation, examination, and determination, consider environmental
factors in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), Public Law
91-190. The impact that seaplane operations may have on the safety at the project, aquatic, fish
and wildlife, noise levels, recreation, and air and water quality must be considered. Prior to
concluding any such investigation and examination, he shall prepare an environmental impact
assessment (EIA) and, if necessary, an environmental impact statement (EIS) assessing the
environmental impacts of permitting seaplanes to operate at the projects, or portions thereof, in
his district.
(5) Notify the FAA by letter of projects, or portions thereof, where seaplane operations
are prohibited or restricted. The letter should use the words seaplane operations prohibited, or
seaplane operations restricted to describe the geographical location of such areas as precisely as
possible, describe any restrictions, include a telephone number for FAA to contact the District,
and be sent to: Federal Aviation Administration, Area Traffic Service, Flight Services Division
(AAT-432), 800 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20591.
11-1
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