Flood Control
Periodic floods are a regular occurrence throughout the Missouri River Basin. Resulting from storms, snowmelt and even ice jams, floods significantly impact the people, communities, infrastructure, farms and businesses in the Basin.
Past
Historically, the Missouri River overflowed its banks nearly every year, and major floods were recorded in 1844, 1881, 1903, 1915, 1926 and 1934. In 1943, floods in the Midwest were unusually severe. America was at war and flood waters impeded the military effort:
- Manufacture and transportation of war materials were halted due to flooded factories, highways and railroads
- Omaha’s airport – a vital transportation link – was under water
- Flooded farm fields meant delayed planting and smaller harvests
The 1943 floods emphasized the need for flood control measures that were then incorporated into the Flood Control Act of 1944.
Present
Federal projects, such as dams and levees, were built to protect flood-prone areas. However, flood risk reduction measures can never totally eliminate the potential for severe flooding. The 1993 flood ranks among the nation’s most costly. As bad as this flood was, flood control measures resulting from the Flood Control Act of 1944 prevented even more damage. Measures now in place are estimated to have prevented billions of dollars in damages to homes, businesses, public facilities, farms, and infrastructure.
Flood risk can never be completely eliminated. However flood risk can be reduced and better managed. Flood risk can be addressed through the construction, maintenance, and upgrade of infrastructure, and also through improved floodplain and flood risk management measures.
