Improving Pond Creek
JEFFERSON CITY – The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is seeking comments on a draft plan to improve water quality in Pond Creek located near Mineral Point in Washington County.
The goals set for Pond Creek are part of a total maximum daily load document frequently referred to as a TMDL, which describes pollutant reductions needed to improve water quality in the creek.
The department has determined that Pond Creek does not meet water quality standards due to an excess of inorganic sediment and has placed it on Missouri’s 2008 list of impaired waters.
Section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act requires the department to establish a list of impaired waters and to develop improvement plans for those waterways included on the list. A total maximum daily load document is a study of the impaired water that establishes the maximum amount of a pollutant the water can absorb before its quality is affected.
The study process works best when local citizens come together to understand and identify problems in their watershed, and help develop the most effective solution for reducing water pollution and developing a successful watershed management plan.
The draft Pond Creek study proposes targets for inorganic sediment to improve the water quality of the creek. The information sheet for the study also includes background information on the creek, provides an overview of the situation and usually includes a data sheet and map of the creek.
Copies of the Pond Creek study and supporting documents can be obtained by calling the department’s Water Protection Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-6623 or by visiting the department’s website at http://www.dnr.mo.gov/.
The public is encouraged to participate in this process if they have concerns regarding the content of this document or if they would like to provide written support for the process. The program will accept written comments on the study through July 23.
Comments should be sent to the Department of Natural Resources, Water Protection Program, Water Quality Assessment and Protection Section, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176. Send e-mail comments to john.hoke@dnr.mo.gov. E-mails should include the contact information of the sender, including name, mailing address and telephone number.
