Final Decision on Missouri's List of Impaired Waters

(Lenexa, Kan., Nov. 19, 2012) - E.P.A. Region seven has made a final decision on Missouri's list of impaired waters. E.P.A. restored 8 water bodies to Missouri's list and removed one water body due to an EPA-approved pollution reduction plan. Today's decision brings the total number of impaired waters in the state to 258.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) submitted its impaired waters list to E.P.A. for review and approval as required by the Clean Water Act (CWA). The act requires E.P.A. to review the state's list of impaired waters to determine if the state reasonably considered accessible water quality-related data, and identifies waters to be listed.

"EPA considered numerous comments from local citizens and representatives of organizations before making a final decision," said Karl Brooks, E.P.A. regional administrator. "EPA fully supports Missouri's efforts to develop pollution reduction plans, which will restore water quality in the state."

A water body is placed on the impaired waters list when monitoring finds that pollutant levels prevent the lake, river, or stream from attaining its beneficial uses. A water body can be removed from the list if it meets its beneficial uses or if a pollution reduction project for the water body is approved by EPA. The waters that are removed may remain impaired until the pollution reduction project is implemented. Beneficial uses in Missouri include human recreation, water supply, and maintaining healthy aquatic life.

EPA's Nov. 13, 2012, decision letter provides a more detailed description of EPA's review and the basis for this action. The decision letter, including the 2012 impaired waters list, is accessible online.

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