Leaders from across the Watershed met in St. Louis on January 2025 with the goal of aligning around a proposed organizational structure for continued exploration. With the principle of “form follows function” in mind, this meeting built upon the working group discussions held last fall where shared goals were created around critical areas such as navigation, floods and droughts, recreation, water quality, and fish and wildlife.
Prior to the workshop, the planning team identified four potential models for the group’s consideration, drawing from structures used by large multi-state collaboratives across the United States. The details of each model were shared with the group, allowing participants to evaluate the strengths, challenges, and critical questions associated with each option. Ultimately, the group chose a novel structure that incorporates key features from existing models, while also offering the potential to build on current partnerships and programs. This structure also expands the range of partners who will have a voice in the Mississippi River Watershed Partnership. We look forward to providing updates on our progress throughout the year. To learn more about the road ahead, click here.