River Storage Fee Plan Set For Early 2013 Release

A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers spokesman says a plan to charge a storage fee for Missouri River water should be completed early next year.

The proposal would require city and industrial users to enter into contracts to purchase water from the river's six reservoirs, including four in South Dakota.

The idea has not gone over well in river cities. South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley says the state will sue if the corps goes through with its plan.

Larry Janis, project manager for the corps, says a final decision will be made when surplus water and environmental reports are completed in early 2013.

Janis says the corps' district that includes South Dakota is the only one that doesn't charge for water storage.