Senator John Hoeven met last month with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to address maintenance and upkeep needs at recreation sites around Lake Sakakawea.
“Federal funding has been inadequate to meet basic maintenance needs,” said Terry Fleck, chairman of the Friends of Lake Sakakawea. “We have met with representatives from the congressional delegation and, in collaboration with the Corps, have been asking for increased funding and to address these needs. We are pleased Senator Hoeven is meeting with officials.”
According to Hoeven’s office, the senator met with Col. Mark Himes, Commander of the Army Corps’ Omaha District to discuss securing funding to support maintenance on Corps-owned boat ramps; establishing a regional general permit to expedite the permitting process for drought-related projects, such as extending water intakes or boat ramp maintenance; and appointing a drought coordinator to help coordinate the Corps’ drought responses with federal, state, and local stakeholders.
“The persistent low water levels at Lake Sakakawea have created real challenges, impacting boat ramps, roads and other facilities,” said Senator Hoeven. “That’s why we’ve been working with the Corps to fund and streamline their drought response, while ensuring they coordinate their efforts with state and local stakeholders. We appreciate Col. Himes’ partnership and hard work in these matters so that North Dakotans can enjoy the lake and its activities. In particular, the regional general permit that’s in place for North Dakota will be helpful in expediting permits, and we look forward to the appointment of a Drought Coordinator.”
“The Omaha District is committed to partnering with our federal, state, and local stakeholders to find solutions to improve recreational access during anticipated drought conditions,” said Colonel Mark Himes, Omaha District Commander.
Senator Hoeven is a member fo the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee.
Stakeholders can obtain Missouri River updates from the Water Management Division at https://www.nwd-mr.usace.