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Fargo, N.D. (AP) Former Gov. Ed Schafer is joining Fargo-Moorhead business leaders in promoting a diversion project on the North Dakota side of the Red River.

The proposed "split flow" diversion would begin at the Wild Rice River west of Interstate 29, and run into northern Cass County near Argusville.

Schafer, a former federal Agriculture secretary, said it would face fewer political problems and could be cheaper than a diversion on the Minnesota side of the river. Cost estimates range in the area of $1 billion.

The Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating permanent flood proposals in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Schafer's group is distributing forms so people can contact local and state officials and the corps.

On the Net: Flood Protection Coalition for the F-M Community: www.fmfloodcontrol.com.

Information from: KCND-FM, http://www.prairiepublic.org (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-29-09 1959CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list