PIERRE, S.D. (KCCR) – As rivers rise with recent frequent rains the City of Pierre is keeping a closer eye on the Missouri River. City Engineer John Childs updated the Pierre City Commission on the river’s status Tuesday night.

Oahe’s Exclusive Flood Control Pool starts at elevation 1617 and ends at elevation 1620. Monday, Oahe’s elevation was at 1617.9 or just under 1618. The record elevation, set in 2011 is 1619.6. Commissioner Jim Mehlhaff asked about mountain snowpack run off into the Missouri. Childs says there is plenty of room for that.

Childs says releases would have to double from Oahe before risking water leaving the river.

Starting today the Corps of Engineers will be giving daily briefings on the status of the Missouri River and the main stem reservoir system. The Pierre City Commission is also adding weekly updates on the river to its agendas moving forward for the next few weeks.