Two streams are in Barton County. Under consideration is Hudson Creek, which flows through northwestern Barry County and eventually runs into Capps Creek and then Shoal Creek and, secondly, the north fork of the Spring River. Another in Newton County is the Middle Indian Creek, which flows through southeastern Newton County and eventually runs into Indian Creek and then the Elk River.

The decision will be made in connection with a new rule being drafted by MDNR that is scheduled for final approval later this year. MDNR will be accepting public comments on the rule until July 14, 2005.

Anyone who uses these streams may want to provide comments. The level of protection required for streams depends on how people use them and whether such uses are likely in the future. If people swim, wade, or fish in them, full water quality protections must be put in place and sewer agencies required to disinfect the wastewater they discharge. Comments should therefore include details of how and where the stream is used.

Untreated sewage may contain viruses, parasites, and other pathogens that can make people sick. Waters with elevated levels of fecal coliform and E. coli bacteria, pathogens that are indicators of poor water quality and contamination with human and animal waste, are unsafe to swim in or for children to play in.

Anyone who is interested in protecting the above streams should send their comments to: Marlene Kirchner, Clean Water Commission Secretary, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102. To be considered, comments must be postmarked by 5 p.m. July 14, 2005. A public hearing is also scheduled for 9 a.m., July 6, 2005, in the Best Western Moberly Inn, 1200 Highway 24 East, Moberly during the regularly scheduled Clean Water Commission meeting.

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