BALANCE SOUGHT IN MISSOURI RIVER PLAN

JEFFERSON CITY -- The Missouri Department of Conservation said more work is needed to develop a Missouri River management policy that accommodates the needs of fish and wildlife.

In an issued statement, MDC environmental coordinator Norm Stucky said the corps can develop an alternative that better meets the needs of all who use the river, including fish and wildlife.

Specific suggestions include establishing a monitoring program to test the model on which the corps based its proposed river management plan. He also suggested modifying dikes and other river control structures to create places for fish and wildlife while maintaining the commercial navigation channel.

The corps has proposed changes in its "Master Manual for Operation of the Missouri River," generating controversy all along the waterway. Some are concerned the changes might mean loss of water to upstream states, or an effective end to barge traffic on the river. Much discussion has focused on costs to Missouri's farmers and the state's overall economy.

Stucky said Missouri's fish and wildlife resources also deserve consideration. "That the river ecosystem is in trouble is clearly indicated by the population decline of native Missouri River fishes," he said.

The corps must follow federal laws protecting endangered species, including at least one Missouri River resident, the pallid sturgeon. Changing annual flow patterns to more closely match what nature once did would improve habitat for this and other fish, primarily in parts of the river upstream from St. Joseph.

"The department does not believe it is necessary for the Missouri River Master Manual to become an endangered species battle," said Stucky. "We believe the vast resources of the Missouri River are capable of supporting important uses including navigation, water supply and, of course, fish and wildlife resources."