MDC holding Flow Regime Public Forum at Runge Nature Center

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will hold a Flow Regime Public Forum from 4-6 p.m. on April 3 at its Runge Conservation Nature, located off Hwy 179 in Jefferson City approximately one-half mile north of Hwy 50. The program will include a short presentation on the Department’s proposed flow regime policy, followed by the opportunity to visit with agency staff and provide comment.

The Department’s flow regime policy provides guidance and direction to staff in responding to requests for agency comments for public and Department projects. Since the inception of the Clean Water Act in 1972, Department comments have been offered for the consideration of the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to avoid, minimize and mitigate impacts to forest, fish and wildlife resources as part of public-trust responsibilities. This policy is a continuation of the Department’s long-standing responsibilities as the state’s public trust agency for forest, fish and wildlife resources.

The policy does not claim regulatory authority as to flow, water quantity or water resources. Department comments and recommendations are offered to reduce impacts to forest, fish and wildlife resources that may result from a variety of projects in and along Missouri’s waterways. The flow regime policy is a process whereby stream projects are evaluated based on the kind of project, the degree of potential impacts and the present status of stream and riparian habitat and biological function. Consultation and negotiation are recognized as essential roles with outside partners in finding resolution to issues and developing recommendations.

Written comments are invited prior to and at the meeting. Contact MDC Public Involvement Coordinator Michele Baumer with questions at 573-522-4115 Ext. 3350, or Michele.Baumer@mdc.mo.gov.