June 28, 2004

Senator Kit Bond

Washington, D.C.

Dear Senator Bond,

We of the Mississippi River Citizen Commission urge your support for the President’s FY05 budget recommendation of $28 million for the Upper Mississippi River Environmental Management Program (EMP).

There is very strong support among citizens along the Upper Mississippi River for the work of the EMP. In a recent public hearing on the Corps of Engineers Navigation Feasibility Study, nearly 50 people representing a wide range of interests presented prepared statements concerning the report’s recommendations. At least 45 endorsed the need for the extensive habitat restoration embodied in the study. It is our understanding that similar broad support was expressed at the other meetings along the river. The strong support for significant additional habitat restoration reflects public support for the work of the EMP.

The Long Term Resource Monitoring Program (LTRMP) of the EMP is vital for providing the science base for good habitat restoration. Yet the House allocation of $16 million (well below the 1986 authorization of $20 million) would cripple the program, very likely necessitating the cancellation of data collection which has continued uninterrupted since the beginning of the program. As invasive species threaten ecosystems, water supplies, and safe recreation, the LTRMP needs a boost in funding rather than a severe cut.

We appreciate the Senate’s leadership in introducing bills providing for both extensive navigation and extensive environmental improvements. But we cannot afford to let the EMP languish as major legislation works its way to Congressional approval.

The EMP was established as an environmental investment matched to the reconstruction of Lock and Dam 26. The dam was completed, but the EMP has received a fraction of the dollars promised. The President himself listed the EMP as a priority project. We urge your support for his FY05 EMP budget recommendation of $28 million.

Sincerely,

William Howe, Chair