EPA approves Missouri’s new water quality standards

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) has received approval from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for revised recreational use designations for 102 water bodies in the state.

The designated uses protect Missouri waters for recreational activities. States must assign fishable and swimmable uses to waters unless science-based studies show that these cannot be attained.

The EPA also disapproved MDNR designations for 41 water bodies. The disapprovals occurred when studies did not show that lowering the use was appropriate.

EPA regional administrator Karl Brooks said the agency will keep working with the state to protect lakes, rivers and streams.

"Healthy waters provide Missouri communities with safe drinking water, recreational opportunities, environmental benefits and a healthy habitat for fish and wildlife," Brooks added.

As per the requirement by the Clean Water Act (CWA), MDNR has submitted these new and revised water quality standards to the EPA for review and approval.

The state based its recommendations on site-specific field data gathered from streams and rivers across Missouri.

The CWA assigns the EPA the duty to oversee state-agency actions to protect water quality.

In partnership with the MDNR, the EPA works with the public, community leaders, and local and state agencies to meet the growing demands placed on US water resources.