Water Quality

Past

The Missouri River quenched the thirst of generations through prehistory into historic times. However, with 19th century poulation and economic growth, human and industrial wastes found their way into the Missouri River. Even into the 20th century, deadly typhoid from feces-contaminated water took its toll on River travelers and local inhabitants.

In the more recent past, human-contributed contaminants (mercury and pesticides, as examples) found their way into both the River’s aquatic life and sediments. Several of these contaminants remain in the water, the sediments, and in the bodies of fish and other animals along the Missouri River. Non-point source contaminants are now among the biggest challenges for improved water quality.

Present

The Federal Clean Water Act was passed in 1972, requiring water quality standards be established, point source discharges be regulated, polluted runoff be managed, and comprehensive water quality monitoring of the nation’s waterways be conducted. Today, Tribal, local, State and Federal cooperators monitor water quality in the Missouri River for numerous physical, chemical, and biological constituents.

The Missouri River provides water to many rural communities and cities who are relying less on local aquifers with water quality issues. The reliability and importance of Missouri River water quality is essential to the future of many communities in the Basin.

Numerous power plants draw cooling water from the Missouri River. Low river flows affect power plants’ ability to withdraw and discharge heated water into the Missouri River while staying within water quality standards.

A recent water quality concern is “emerging contaminants” including prescription drugs, antibiotics, hormones, household products, and algal toxins that can threaten human health and the environment at very low levels.