Lew Whitney served for over three years until 1998 in the senior civilian position of Deputy District Engineer for Project Management and Chief of the Programs and Project Management Division. During this period he was responsible for a very robust program of civil works, military, and hazardous and toxic waste cleanup projects. In addition, he played a key role in the reconciliation of diverse interests in the Guadalupe and Napa River flood control projects. He also had significant involvement in the recovery program for the Sacramento and San Joaquin River Systems following the major floods of 1997.