Innovative Methods of Integrating Conservation Planning Methods, Conceptual Ecological Models, USACE Planning Requirements, and NEPA to Develop a Comprehensive Plan: Missouri River Ecosystem Restoration Plan Case Study

The Missouri River Ecosystem Restoration Plan/EIS (MRERP/EIS) is among the largest basin-wide restoration planning efforts in the US, and represents an unparalleled opportunity and challenge. The aim of the effort is to identify restoration, mitigation and recovery goals for the Missouri River and its tributaries, ecological systems and native species for the coming 30–50 years. The complexity of the project and its geographic scale present numerous challenges, among which is the need to provide real engagement opportunities for the interested public and stakeholders, including members of 29 basin tribes, 8 states and dozens of federal, state and local agencies. To address this challenge, a team of planners representing multiple backgrounds and approaches has developed the MRERP roadmap, which incorporates tested and innovative techniques to ensure procedural and legal requirements are met through a transparent, objective, and scientifically based planning approach. The roadmap integrates NEPA principles and practices, the USACE 6-Step Planning Process, the Open Standards for the Practice of Conservation, and the lessons and best practices of previous large-scale ecosystem restoration planning efforts.