The issue with things so close to the Great Lakes or rivers is that the water table is generally pretty close to the surface. In addition rivers and lakes can rise and the surface water can also change locations. Shorelines changes and rivers meander.
The reason that there can't be a base in Missouri is the water table is really high, even in the Ozarks. I'd love to put a base in an old lead mine but they flood in just a few years if they aren't constantly being pumped.
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