The Office of Water Control is a combination of two separate sections within the Hydrologic and Hydraulics Branch:

• Water Data Management and Environmental Quality
• Watershed Management

Water Data Management/Environmental Quality Section

The Water Data arm of this Section oversees the continuous process of hydrologic data collection, analysis, computation, and preparation for the St. Louis District. Through the administration of its Corps Water Management System (CWMS) program, Water Data provides an effective means of data acquisition, storage, visualization, dissemination, and modeling in support of the daily Water Control activities for the District. In addition to being used to assist in daily decision making, the data collected is frequently used internally and externally for navigation studies, flood plain studies, and construction activities. This data is also provided to various Federal, state, and local agencies, private entities, and the general public. It is posted here at this website and frequently updated for your convenience.

Data Collection System (DCS)

The Environmental Quality (EQ) arm of this Section oversees the development and administration of the District’s environmental management programs. EQ monitors the environmental conditions affecting the daily operations of the four Mississippi River navigation structures, one Kaskaskia River navigation structure, and the five multi-purpose reservoirs located within the District. Working in coordination with other agencies and state and local governments, EQ ensures public health and safety, fish and wildlife, and water quality are properly considered at each project.

In addition to water quality considerations, EQ is also responsible for conducting Phase I and Phase II hazardous, toxic, and radioactive waste investigations. EQ directs and conducts environmental studies examining hazardous waste and groundwater contamination, then develops solutions to containing and controlling these problem sites. EQ provides routine field inspections to ensure compliance with Federal, state, and local environmental and water quality standards, including the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and the Clean Water Act. Through its Environmental Management Program, EQ also coordinates ecosystem restoration projects.

Watershed Management Section

Watershed Management (WM) is primarily responsible for the day-to-day regulation of the four Mississippi River navigation structures and the five multi-purpose reservoirs located within the District. River flow is regulated to promote a number of interests, including flood control, navigation, hydroelectric power generation, water supply, erosion control, environmental enhancement, and recreation, in addition to others. WM must consider each of these interests with every important decision that is made. These decisions must then be coordinated with the project offices, Federal, state, and local government agencies, private water resources entities, and with customers. During high water events, such as those experienced during the summer of 2008, WM cooperates with MVS Emergency Operations in leading the flood fight efforts. Also, during low water events, WM cooperates with the River Industry Action Committee (RIAC) and the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure safe navigable waterways.

In addition to its daily regulatory responsibilities, WM also provides technical expertise and hydraulic design for a variety of local, national, and international projects, ranging from flood protection projects, navigation projects, environmental enhancement projects, and water control manuals. By assembling and analyzing data records, many of which date back to the early days of the Corps, WM develops information concerning flood potential, and how best to minimize potential consequences. Perhaps most importantly, WM strives to maintain a clear and open channel of communication with the general public, and provides information as requested to members of the public on flood-related questions and problems.

Environmental Sterwardship
Fish Spawn Information		Environmental Pool Management
A "Green" Approach to Water Management Practice