A Drought Early Warning System (DEWS) Strategic Plan 2.0 for the Missouri River Basin

In February 2014, the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS) officially began developing a Drought Early Warning Information System for the Missouri River Basin focused on risk management, vulnerability assessment, capacity building and planning with nine basin states and the 28 tribes located in the basin. There are several recommendations from partners and stakeholders discussed and included in the strategic plan. In addition, monitoring, prediction and communication methods are being addressed. In 2017, NIDIS, along with key federal, state and tribal governments, sectors (agriculture, navigation, energy, water supply) and academic institutions began to enhance the Missouri River Basin DEWS. Although much has been accomplished, there are a number of key unmet needs and requirements for tribal governments, federal agencies, states and sectors that still need attention. This presentation will address the accomplishments and needs expressed in developing the DEWS in the Missouri River Basin. An updated basin-wide strategic plan is underway and will be discussed as well.