A draft total maximum daily load (TMDL) document for Big River, Turkey Creek, Eaton Branch, Koen Creek, Salt Pine Creek and Tributary to Old Mines Creek, is available for public review and comment until June 6, 2023. The department extended the comment period, which was originally scheduled to close May 22, 2023. These waterbodies are located in St. Francois, Washington and Jefferson counties.
Written comments may be submitted by mail to Michael Kruse, TMDL Unit Chief, Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Water Protection Program, PO Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176, or by email to tmdl@dnr.mo.gov. Please provide your name, address, and phone number when submitting comments.
TMDLs are tools to inform watershed planning. They calculate the maximum amount of a specific pollutant, or load, a water body can absorb and still meet water quality standards. This calculated loading is then divided between the various pollutant sources in the watershed and becomes the goal, or loading target, to restore water quality. The draft TMDL proposes pollutant loading targets to address excessive metal and sediment impairments for several impaired streams in the Big River watershed.
The pubic can review an electronic copy of the draft TMDL document below. A paper copy of the draft document can be obtained from the department's Water Protection Program by calling 573-751-5723.