The flooding of New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina was one of America's worst natural disasters. FEMA wants to make sure that never happens again--and that's why it's making sure levees across the country are in top shape including the Big Ditch here in Sedgwick County.

Wichita and Sedgwick County will have to spend two and a half million dollars for a study to get the Big Ditch system certified for FEMA. Consultants will make sure the 100-mile long levee system can actually hold up to a 100-year flood. The study will look at drainage, pump systems, the soil and structure of the levee itself.

Wichita city officials expect to have to spend even more money after the study is done. "When you go through certification like this if I were a betting person I would bet that we're going to find some things that probably need some attention," said Wichita Public Works Director Chris Carrier.

Surrounding communities are also having to fork over money to get certified. Reno County is spending one million to get its system certified. City leaders say the expense is worth the peace of mind the study will provide.