The Corps' Hydrologic Engineering Center (HEC) has developed a generalized simulation model capable of analyzing complex river-reservoir systems. The development of the model, 'HEC-5, Simulation of Flood Control and Conservation Systems' (Eichert, 1974, 1975) has been paced by the changing mission of the Corps as well as the evolution of computer systems. HEC-5 development and management, including code development, testing, documentation, training and field application experience, is discussed. (fr).