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Frequently asked questions

What is the timeline of the scoping process?

The chart below shows the timeline of the Missouri River Authorized Purposes Study process.

Scoping Process

  • Scoping Comment Period, Public Scoping Meetings - May 25 to Sept. 20, 2010
  • Scoping Comment Analysis - Sept. 2010 to March 2011
  • Draft Scoping Summary Report Released - March 5, 2011
  • Scoping Summary Report Review - March 2011 to April 2011
    • Public Feedback Meetings - March 28 - April 6, 2011
    • Tribal Feedback Meetings- March 21 - April 30, 2011
    • Draft Scoping Summary Report Feedback Deadline - April 30, 2011
  • Completed Scoping Summary Report - September 2011

What is the project area?

The project area potentially covers the entire Missouri River Basin and tributaries and projects, especially the Missouri River main stem lake projects; to include a review of effects on the Mississippi River.

What are the opportunities?

Examine current project infrastructure and operations to identify options that may provide more multipurpose benefits in terms of economic, ecosystem, cultural, and socio-economic/societal outputs

Facilitate basin-wide discussion of trade-offs and efficiencies

Evaluate river management options in respect to current basin values and priorities

What are the Missouri River "purposes" addressed in the study?

The authorized Missouri River Project purposes are:
Flood control
Navigation
Irrigation
Hydropower
Water quality
Water supply
Recreation
Fish and wildlife.

Who are the stakeholders?

Note that stakeholders will be further defined during the listening session process, but an early list would likely include:

Nearby States – MO, KS, NE, IA, MN, SD, ND, WY, MT, CO; plus Middle Mississippi River and lower Mississippi River States
American Indian Tribes associated with the Missouri River Basin
Mississippi River Commission
All applicable Federal agencies
Existing stakeholder groups: MoRAST, MRBIR, MRRIC, MO-ARK
Interest-oriented non-governmental organizations and business interests

What is the Missouri River Authorized Purposes Study's relationship to other studies?

MRAPS is a broad-based multi-purpose study. Results from previous and other ongoing studies will be incorporated as appropriate. Ongoing coordination with other studies will avoid duplication.

What is the anticipated product?

Comprehensive feasibility-type report and Environmental Impact Statement for Chief’s Report to Congress. The report will document study findings and make recommendations to Congress as appropriate.

What is the study organization?

The Omaha & Kansas City U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Districts co-lead the study. It will emphasize transparency, stakeholder involvement, and basin-wide communications. Project Management Plan will reflect stakeholder input from upcoming listening sessions. It includes a strong independent review process from qualified entities outside of the Corps.

What is the study authority?

Omnibus Appropriations Act of 2009, Title 1, Section 108, provides authorization to study the Missouri River Projects located within the Missouri River basin to review original project purposes and determine if changes to the authorized purposes and infrastructure may be warranted.