Dramatic changes in the Little Blue River’s basin conditions related to urbanization and other factors are causing increased frequency of flooding and rapid erosion that threatens the large federal investment and other significant public infrastructure, as well as the protected communities and installations. If continued unchecked, the adverse effects of the transforming watershed will cause significant deterioration to the federal flood-protection projects, increasing damage to critical infrastructure, wildlife habitat and public recreation investment. A comprehensive watershed study is required to unite the communities and agencies in the leveraging of resources for the protection of federal investment, infrastructure, habitat conservation, and storm water management allowing for increased economic benefits to the area.

In addition to the City of Independence, Jackson County, the Mid-America Regional Council, the United States Army Corps of Engineers, and the cities of Belton, Blue Springs, Grandview, Kansas City, Lee's Summit, and Raytown are participating members of this project.

This is a budgeted capital project item.