Huntington District, WV -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is in the process of updating the Regional Master Plan for six of the locks and dams located on the Ohio River to include Meldahl Locks and Dam, Greenup Locks and Dam, Robert C. Byrd Locks and Dams, Racine Locks and Dam, Belleville Locks and Dam and Willow Island Locks and Dam.
Normally, USACE would conduct a face-to-face public workshop to announce the start of the revision and to request comments from the public. However, precautions associated with the COVID-19 virus have made it necessary to conduct the public involvement process online instead of hosting a face-to-face workshop.
What is a Master Plan?
The Master Plan is the strategic land use management document that guides the comprehensive management and development of all project recreational, natural, and cultural resources throughout the life of the water resources project. Revision of the Master Plan will not address in detail the technical operational aspects of the reservoir related to the water supply or flood risk management missions of the project.
Why Revise the Locks and Dams Master Plans?
The current Master Plans are outdated and do not comply with current USACE guidance regarding master plans. Changes have occurred over time and need to be captured to reflect the current and future management of the projects. The current master plans and land classifications are in need of revision to address changes in regional land use, population, outdoor recreation trends, and USACE management policy. Key topics to be addressed in the revised Regional Master Plan include revised land classifications, new natural and recreational resource management objectives, recreation facility needs, and special topics such as invasive species management and protection of sensitive wildlife habitat. Public participation is critical to the successful revision of the Master Plan.