[altair]

OTOH, it is also responsible for construction, operation and maintenance of much of the infrastructure that makes our inland waterways navigable. A crucial role that is vital to our nation's commerce.

Granted, but what is it doing in the Army? The Army's job is to kill people, break things and otherwise defend the US from threats from abroad.

[gov_bean_ counter]

The COE has military and civil funding vehicles. The civil works side come via the Water Resources Appropriation Bill. The military and civil missions operate independently of each other. BTW, I'm guessing that most of what will be cancelled are studies. I have no doubt that necessary repair and maintenance to locks, dams and powerhouses will continue as well as dredging. Gone should be the environmental and water quality studies that should be done by the Conservation Department.

[Willie Green]

Granted, but what is it doing in the Army? The Army's job is to kill people, break things and otherwise defend the US from threats from abroad.

Gotta be able to move men and material to do that. Years ago, that meant building roads, railroads, forts, etc. etc. in addition to making our inland waterways navigable. The rivers are still a major part of our transportation infrastructure, and as such, are considered vital to our national security. The Army retains their historical jurisdiction.