An Engineer's Appraisal of the Missouri Basin Development Program

Abstract

IN CONSIDERING the Missouri Basin Development Program from an engineering aspect, it seems almost impossible not to touch upon certain other aspects such as economic, political, and social considerations. Engineering considerations must always take into account various other influences. Any good engineer will recognize these influences and temper his engineering decisions to some degree in accordance with those outside influences. However, these outside influences should never be allowed to predominate to the point where good engineering becomes secondary. The Missouri Basin Program is certainly of national importance in many ways. The economy of the area will always be a vital factor in the economy of the nation. The bulk of the expenditures being made for development come from the federal government, yet has any economic analysis of the program, from a national point of view, ever been made? Is it desirable to carry on the program at such an accelerated pace during this particular national economic level? Do we need increased production, in some cases costing hundreds of dollars per acre, at this particular time when we find it necessary to have price supports on farm products at a high level? Soil erosion is depleting the productive capacity of the Basin at a rather alarming rate. In order to maintain and increase the productive capacity, it seems logical that soil conservation measures should occupy a high priority in any development program for the Basin. Strange to say, this matter has received serious consideration only in recent months and very little work has been done to accelerate the program of soil conservation. On the other hand, irrigable land represents a potential productive capacity that does not deteriorate when not in use and can be brought into use at the proper time to bolster national production when it is most needed. It seems that the first requirement for the Missouri River Basin is to enhance the economy of the region to the point where it becomes a national asset rather than a national liability. I seriously question whether the development program, as it is now being carried out, will of itself accomplish this. I see very little attention being given to industrial development. Industry is certainly one