FLOOD CONTROL FUNDS APPROVED

WASHINGTON -- Congress last week gave final approval to the 1991 Energy and Water Appropriations Bill, which includes continued funding of the Cape LaCroix Creek-Walker Branch flood control project in Cape Girardeau.

The House approved the bill by a vote of 399-32, sending the measure to the Senate, which approved $10.3 million for the Cape Girardeau project Wednesday.

The bill now goes to President Bush for his signature. Included in the appropriations are:

$10.3 million for general construction of the Cape LaCroix Creek-Walker Branch Flood Control Project in Cape Girardeau.

$389,000 for navigational uses in the Caruthersville Harbor in Pemiscot County.

$2 million for Clearwater Lake in Reynolds County.

20$93,000 for navigational purposes at the Southeast Missouri Regional Port in Scott City.

$3.2 million for Wappapello Lake in Wayne County.

20$353.4 million for the Mississippi River and tributaries for flood control and river bank stabilization efforts.

"The federal funding for these water projects, especially the ones in southern Missouri, is a necessity and cannot be ignored," said U.S. Rep. Bill Emerson, R-Mo.

"The folks in the 8th District know all too well the devastating effects flooding waters can have. This legislation is on the right track to help minimize the damage to our farms, our businesses and our homes."

U.S. Sen. Christopher S. "Kit" Bond, R-Mo., said approval of several Missouri water projects will help bolster Missouri's economy.

"With this funding, we can move forward to strengthen economic development and environmental projects vital to Missouri's interests," Bond said. "The management and development of Missouri's waterways are an important part of Missouri's economy.

"Our state needs protection from flooding to maintain its tourism and recreational industries, as well as protecting Missourians and their property."