(By RYAN SKAITH)
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Omaha and Kansas City districts have released a draft feasibility report and environmental study aimed at revolutionizing flood risk management along the Lower Missouri River.
The System Plan, detailed in a newly published Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS), outlines a comprehensive strategy to bolster resiliency across the entire basin. Beyond flood protection, the plan identifies projects designed to deliver ecological, recreational, and economic benefits to local communities.
Officials are now inviting federal and state agencies, Tribal nations, local governments, and the general public to review the documents and submit formal comments. The public comment period is open through March 9, 2026.
“The System Plan is a roadmap for the future of the Lower Missouri River,” the districts stated in a joint release. “We are looking for input to ensure these actions effectively address flood risks while supporting the social and environmental health of the region.”
The draft files and an electronic comment form are available on the project’s official website. Written comments can also be submitted via mail or email to the Planning Branches in Kansas City or Omaha:
- Kansas City District: ATTN: Planning Branch, 601 E. 12th St., Kansas City, MO 64106; email: max.r.headlee@usace.army.mil.
- Omaha District: 1616 Capitol Ave., Omaha, NE 68102; email: david.j.crane@usace.army.mil.
USACE has scheduled a series of in-person public meetings and webinars for late February 2026. Specific dates, times, and locations will be posted on the project website, though officials noted that schedules may shift due to inclement weather.
Following the review period, the Corps expects to address all feedback and issue a Final PEIS in the spring of 2026.
