What Is Levee In Irrigation: A Vital Component Of Efficient Farming

What is a levee? A levee, as defined by the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is a man-made structure, typically constructed using earthen embankments, and designed and built following sound engineering practices. Its primary purpose is to contain, control, or redirect the flow of water, thereby offering protection against temporary flooding. Levees are crucial infrastructures often found in areas prone to flooding, serving as a defense against inundation during heavy rainfall or rising water levels in rivers, lakes, or other water bodies.

Why is it called a levee? The term “levée” finds its etymological roots in the French verb “lever,” which translates to “to rise,” particularly from one’s bed. This word has historical significance tracing back to the era of King Louis XIV (1643 – 1715). During his reign, King Louis XIV had a customary practice known as the “Levée du Soleil” or “Rising of the Sun.” This practice involved the king receiving his male subjects in his Royal bedchamber shortly after awakening each day. The term “levée” thus reflects the act of rising from one’s slumber, which was an integral part of this royal tradition.

A levee in engineering refers to a constructed low ridge or earthen embankment strategically positioned alongside the banks of a river or stream. Its primary purpose is to serve as a protective barrier against flooding, effectively preventing the adjacent land from being submerged during periods of high water levels. These artificial levees are particularly essential in managing the flow of rivers that wind their way through expansive, level floodplains. By confining the river’s course and raising its banks, levees help mitigate the risk of inundation, safeguarding communities and valuable land from the destructive forces of flooding. This vital engineering feature plays a crucial role in flood control and disaster prevention.