Missouri River Flood and Drought: Experts Agree the Corps Took Appropriate Action, Given the Circumstances, but Should Examine New Forecasting Techniques
Abstract
The Missouri River stretches from western Montana to St. Louis, Missouri. The Corps manages six dams and reservoirs on the river to provide flood control and for other purposes, such as recreation and navigation. The Corps bases reservoir release decisions on the guidance in the Master Manual. In the 2011 flood, the Corps managed the highest runoff volume since 1898, resulting in record reservoir releases. Subsequently, drought occurred in the basin in 2012 and 2013. GAO was asked to review the Corps release decisions and communication during the flood and drought. This report examines (1) experts views on the Corps release decisions; (2) experts recommendations to improve the Corps release decisions; and (3) stakeholders' views on the Corps communication, as well as any suggested improvements. GAO worked with the National Academy of Sciences to convene a meeting of nine experts to discuss the Corps data, forecasts, and release decisions. GAO also interviewed 45 Missouri River basin stakeholders, including state and local agencies, among others, to discuss their views on the Corps communication. The views of stakeholders are not generalizable. GAO recommends that the Corps evaluate the pros and cons of incorporating new forecasting techniques into its management of the Missouri River reservoirs. The Department of Defense concurred with the recommendation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2014
- Accession Number
- AD1099416
Entities
People
- Anne-marie Fennell Fennell
- Armetha Liles
- Cheryl Arvidson
- Cindy Gilbert
- Elizabeth Beardsley
- Hamilton Hamilton
- Janice Poling
- Michelle Cooper
- Perry Jr Lusk
- Vondalee R. Hunt
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office