
Associated Press - October 19, 2009 5:04 PM ET
MOORHEAD, Minn. (AP) - The Army Corps of Engineers says a diversion channel through Minnesota, a channel through North Dakota or levees along the bank of the Red River are the best flood control options for people in the Fargo-Moorhead area.
Corps officials want local leaders should choose a plan by December First so it can be submitted to Congress by the end of the year.
Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty says it may be an aggressive time-line, but the corps has responded and now it's up to local officials.
Project Manager Aaron Snyder says the Minnesota diversion option is ranked higher due to some uncertainties with the North Dakota diversion. He says the North Dakota side involves more tributaries, and more studies may be needed.
Public hearings are scheduled tomorrow night and Wednesday night. The corps is expected to make a recommendation in May.
Information from: Todd McDonald, Prairie Public Radio, http://www.prairiepublic.org
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