Mr. Meers had no previous formal training in emergency management or response when he was put into the chaotic aftermath of the Minneapolis I-35 bridge collapse disaster that occurred directly below the Lower St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam where he works. As soon as he learned of the disaster, he began directing his staff to deploy rescue boats and assist rescue operations.

As a result of hazardous conditions that threatened to impede rescue operations, the Lower St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam station served as a command post. Mr. Meers and his staff provided direct support to operations by continually monitoring river flows and coordinating upstream and downstream locks to ensure divers could operate under the safest conditions possible. His knowledge and expertise of the river and lock operations were crucial in expediting victim recovery.