Addicks and Barker Reservoir System and Its Problems

Addicks and Barker Reservoirs - part of the drainage system developed in the 1940's, after a severe storm, to prevent any future damage from floods inflicted by heavy rains of tropical storms. About 70 years has passed since the creation of reservoirs, but the problems with flooding are still relevant. Last year, hurricane Harvey led to widespread floods due to the inability of Addicks and Barker Reservoirs system to hold rain water under control. This topic is very important because those floods inflicted by Hurricane Harvey have had a deep and harmful impact on many civilians in the whole Houston area. Many lost their homes and had nowhere to go. As one of many residents living in this area, it is in my interest to help to find a solution to this flooding problem. In this paper, I will describe stories behind Addicks Reservoir and South Mayde Creek in my neighborhood. I will discuss 1981 plans for modification of Addicks and Barker Reservoirs, describe my own experience in my neighborhood during Hurricane Harvey with my recent visit to South Mayde Creek, and give a comparison to Ancient Rome’s Tiber River floods and its impacts on ancient civilization. Finally, I will overview civilian activism to take some action regarding floods in Houston area.