Missouri Clean Water Commission

The Missouri Clean Water Commission supervises the administration and enforcement of the Missouri Clean Water Law (Missouri Revised Statute Chapter 644, RSMo). Established in 1972 by the Missouri General Assembly, to take the place of the Water Pollution Board originally assigned under the Missouri Department of Public Health and Welfare. The commission was later reassigned to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, when the department was created under the Omnibus State Reorganization Act of 1974.

The commission brings together and coordinates all aspects of water quality in an effort to ensure the state’s progress toward protecting, preserving and improving water quality in Missouri. In coordination with industry, citizens and local governments, the commission develops comprehensive plans and programs for preventing, controlling and reducing new or existing sources of pollution. The commission makes decisions on matters brought on appeal and administers variance requests. With assistance from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources' Water Protection Program, the commission develops Missouri’s Water Quality Standards and Missouri’s list of impaired waters. When necessary, the commission also takes enforcement action against those who violate the Missouri Clean Water Law and regulations. The commission also establishes funding priorities and oversees financial assistance to protect and preserve water quality. 

• Missouri Clean Water Commission - PUB1255
• Water Protection Program
• Water Quality Standards Variances

Commission Meetings

The commission meets at least four times a year. Agenda items vary, but they typically include public hearings, actions on rules, requests for variances or work related to compliance issues. The public is welcome to attend these meetings, which may be in person, by conference call or through Webex. The department cannot guarantee the quality of the Webex or conference call options. The department attempts to correct any technical difficulties as they arise, but the meeting will not be subject to change or repeat due to any technical difficulties.

If you would like to address the commission on any agenda item, you will need to notify the department before the meeting. You can do this by emailing the commission secretary at krista.welschmeyer@dnr.mo.gov if attending by Webex or conference call. If attending in person, you can complete a Speaker Request form that will be available at the registration table at the meeting.