After meeting earlier this week about rising water in the Missouri River Basin in Jefferson City, Missouri, U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-9) again met with U.S Army Corps of Engineers Commander of the Northwestern Division Brig. Gen. John McMahon to discuss in more detail how best to deal with the potentially devastating effect of rising water on Missouri River communities.

In a meeting held today in Washington, D.C., Gen. McMahon provided Luetkemeyer with the latest update on flooding in the Missouri River Basin and discussed the master manual dictating the operation of the Missouri River. A comprehensive study of the purposes and authorized uses of the river was completed in 2004.

“We want to continue to help General McMahon and the Corps of Engineers in their mission to protect life and property,” Luetkemeyer said. “We are currently asking the Corps to juggle too many competing interests. Too much emphasis has been placed on recreation, habitat restoration and compliance with the Endangered Species Act. Public safety should continue to be the Corps top concern. I appreciate the ongoing dialogue with General McMahon and Kansas City District Commander Colonel Tony Hofmann as we work to prepare for flooding throughout the Missouri River Basin.”  

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