How is water quality maintained?

In Missouri, water quality is maintained through a combination of regulatory legislation and diligent monitoring. The main state agency responsible for this is the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). This agency enforces state water laws that are designed to protect surface and groundwater quality. The MDNR sets standards for water quality levels, monitors rivers and streams for chemical and microbial pollution, identifies water pollution sources, and responds to public health and environmental incidents. The MDNR also has numerous programs in place to help reduce water pollution. These include stormwater management, public education and outreach, and watershed management. Stormwater management involves controlling runoff from construction sites, farms, and other areas to prevent pollution from entering waterways. Public education and outreach provide educational materials and workshops to help Missouri residents understand the importance of water quality and how to care for it. Watershed management focuses on improving water quality in an entire watershed through the implementation of conservation practices, such as planting vegetation, creating buffer zones, and restoring wetlands. Additionally, the MDNR requires permits for activities that may affect water quality, such as dredging, mining, wastewater treatment, discharge, and disposal of certain chemicals. These permits must be obtained before the activity can take place. Finally, the MDNR works closely with local officials, organizations, and citizens to monitor water resources and investigate pollution sources. This helps ensure that all water sources are being used responsibly and that water quality is maintained.

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