Gov. Parson calls for flood control improvements

Gov. Mike Parson’s editorial released Thursday said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers must improve flood control operations.

“The Corps maintains one of the nation’s largest flood control systems on the Missouri river main-stem, but the devastating flooding we are experiencing and the previous record 2011 flooding have demonstrated the current system is insufficient to protect us,” according to Parson’s editorial.

“The damage is remarkable. You know, it’s devastating to these families, to these rural communities. It just breaks your heart,” said Dan Cassidy, vice chairman of the Coalition to Protect the Missouri River.

Cassidy is in northwestern Missouri, helping communities impacted by the flood, and said he supports the governor’s stance.

“Seriously have that conversation about what can we do to protect, not only human lives, but when we look at the infrastructure, the towns, the homes, the roads the bridges,” he said.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Spokesperson Eileen L. Williamson said flood control is a major focus.

“The Corps’ No. 1 priority in its operations is life and safety. Our focus is to protect life, and mitigate risks from flood events,” Williamson said.

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