The purpose of the Mississippi River Watershed Plan is to guide future decision-making in the watershed. It is intended to be a living document that will be updated as needed.  The Plan documents the current state of the watershed and anticipated changes related to climate, land use, and the environment. It identifies key issues and challenges, and presents strategic actions aimed at maintaining a healthy river and watershed while balancing the needs of its many userDiscussion Papers

Mississippi River Watershed Plan

Integrated Watershed Management is the process of managing human activities and natural resources on a watershed basis, considering social, economic and environmental issues, as well as community interests, in order to manage water resources sustainably. As conditions in the watershed change, the plan will be updated to both address and adapt to those changes.

Discussion Papers

MVCA developed a series of Discussion Papers which formed the basis for consultation with our many stakeholders and watershed communities – our partners in developing the Mississippi River Watershed Plan.

Backgrounders

A series of four Background Reports were also prepared to support the development of the Mississippi River Watershed Plan. The Backgrounders examine various characteristics of the Mississippi River Watershed, looking at past and current conditions and, where possible, anticipating future changes on the landscape.

Indigenous Engagement Plan

An Indigenous Engagement Plan (IEP) was prepared to guide collaboration with Indigenous communities during preparation of the Watershed Plan to ensure the document respected and reflected Indigenous peoples’ knowledge and values for the watershed.  The Watershed Plan was approved by the Board in 2022, but can still be adjusted to reflect input received from Indigenous communities and members.  Visit our Indigenous Engagement page for more information to learn how you can become involved.

MVCA developed a series of Discussion Papers which formed the basis for consultation with our many stakeholders and watershed communities – our partners in developing the Mississippi River Watershed Plan.