Big Muddy management questioned

The latest wrinkle comes from a U.S. Fish and Wildlife proposal that suggests increased spring flows would help preserve three species of fish and shorebirds. The proposal has incensed Missouri officials who say increasing Spring flows would promote flooding and threaten barge traffic. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the river and spokesman Paul Johnston says the Corps is seeking public input on the Fish and Wildlife plan. The Corps will receive public input through the end of this month. The Corps has been working for some time on a new Master Manual to guide management of the river. It’s set to be released in March.