Feds warned not to presume Minnesota will back flood project

Mark Dayton speaks at Philando Castile conference
File photo of Governor Mark Dayton, July 7, 2016.
Evan Frost | MPR News File

Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton is warning federal officials not to presume his state will approve a permit for the Fargo-Moorhead flood diversion project.

In a recent letter to the director of the Office of Management and Budget and an assistant Army secretary, Dayton says he's "deeply disappointed" that the Army Corps of Engineers seems to be disregarding concerns Minnesota has raised about the project. He says it's essential that the Corps respect Minnesota's permit process and not prematurely begin construction.

Fargo, North Dakota, Mayor Tim Mahoney issued a statement Tuesday says his city is working with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to address its concerns and respects Dayton's timeline.

The $2.1 billion diversion project would protect the Fargo-Moorhead area but would increase the flood risk for some areas upstream.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.