There are six primary functions of the Operations Division:

• Construction: We provide construction contract management to government agencies.
• Flood Damage Reduction: We own and operate 16 vital flood damage reduction reservoirs and annually inspect more than 100 flood damage reduction levees, channel improvements and bank protection projects.
• Navigation: We operate and maintain 13 locks and dams and maintain the 9-foot navigation channel on the Upper Mississippi River.
• Readiness: Our emergency management branch handles the district's mobilization in the event of natural and national disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, and manages the Corps' authorities under PL 84-99 and PL 288 as amended by the Stafford Act.
• Recreation: We administer 49 recreation areas, annually providing more than 50 million hours of enjoyment.
• Water Supply: Our reservoirs provide municipal and industrial water for five communities in western Minnesota and North Dakota.