State officials studying future of the Missouri River

DES MOINES – A state commission charged with developing policies for the Missouri River is working to create a strategic plan for the waterway that makes up a large share of Iowa's western border.

The State Interagency Missouri River Authority is hoping to encourage a dialogue on plans for the river in the areas of ecosystem restoration, tourism, transportation, economic development and energy.

“What's important is that we know what we want from this river so that we find ways to do that,” said Bernie Hoyer, an official with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources who serves as chairman of the authority.

Jane Clark, conservation co-chair of the Iowa Chapter of the Sierra Club, wants to see broad public input on developing a vision for the river.

“I want to make sure that the environmental and conservation issues will be addressed,” Clark said.

Hoyer said Iowa's planning is timely because of an upcoming federal study on the river's use.

“If we can get something in the next year or two, then we have a solid input into that plan,” Hoyer said.

Hoyer said the new federal study may in theory replace the uses and priorities for the river established in the 1944 federal Flood Control Act.

That act led to the building of reservoirs in North Dakota and South Dakota and the creation of channels along the Iowa border, Hoyer said.

The authority already has held a meeting in Sioux City, and Hoyer said they will be developing ways for the public to participate in the discussion.

The authority is made up of representatives from several Iowa state agencies including natural resources, economic development, transportation, agriculture and the utilities board.

The authority also represents the state's interests in the Missouri River Association of States and Tribes, a regional coalition which helps facilitate the management of natural resources within the Missouri River basin.

Those wanting to share their input on plans for the future of the Missouri River can contact Bernie Hoyer at 515-281-7247 or at Bernie.hoyer@dnr.iowa.gov.