The LRD Industry Day, held on December 4, 2024, in Cincinnati, OH, aims to inform participants about the Great Lakes and Ohio River Division's ongoing Civil Works and Military missions, emphasizing the theme "LRD Delivering for the Nation." The agenda includes an overview of LRD's programs, focusing on upcoming civil and military projects, emergency response strategies, and collaboration opportunities. Networking sessions will facilitate interaction between government representatives and industry professionals across various functions, such as construction and environmental services. Breakout sessions will cover key topics in acquisition practices, including best practices for entering the federal marketplace, market research transparency, and addressing barriers to competition. These discussions aim to gather feedback from attendees, ensuring that the government aligns its procurement practices with industry needs and enhances competition in government contracts. The overall event serves to foster collaboration and provide insight into the procurement processes, essential knowledge for stakeholders involved in federal grants and RFPs.

The Great Lakes and Ohio River Division (LRD) focuses on providing engineering, construction, and environmental services across five states, supporting military and civil works. Key statistics include the issuance of over 13,000 permits, management of 88 flood risk management dams, and facilitation of 526 million annual recreational visits generating $1.7 billion in visitor spending. The division houses 60 locks and dams and engages in emergency management, with over $147 million in FEMA mission assignments recorded in FY20. The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative aims to address water quality through multi-agency cooperation, with approximately $30-50 million in annual funding allocated for projects addressing toxic substances, invasive species, and pollution. LRD's contracts cover significant military integration projects, supported by a robust infrastructure to enhance local and national defense through construction projects, environmental remediation, and disaster response. By leveraging competitive procurement processes, LRD seeks to drive industry efficiency and stakeholder involvement in its comprehensive civil works programs.