Water sources, both natural and man-made, are useful for humans and ecosystems. Missouri’s lakes, rivers, streams, springs, wetlands and groundwater provide drinking water, wildlife habitat, water for agriculture and industrial uses, recreational and tourism opportunities and more. Groundwater is a main source of drinking water for most Missourians and provides much of the water used to irrigate crops. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is responsible for protecting the quality of Missouri's water sources. Protecting our water also protects human health, our ecosystems and Missouri’s economy.
Water sources are generally categorized based on where the water is stored. Groundwater is located below the earth's surface, in the ground in spaces between rock and soil. Surface water collects on the ground, in streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, reservoirs or oceans. Learn more about Missouri's various water sources below.
