Hidden beneath the varied landscapes of Missouri is one of the state's most treasured and important natural resources. Groundwater is contained in and moves through aquifers. Various definitions exist for the term aquifer, but generally an aquifer is defined as a saturated, permeable geologic unit that can transmit significant quantities of water under ordinary hydraulic gradients. Nearly all of the geologic formations in Missouri are capable of storing and discharging varying amounts of groundwater.
Groundwater could be contaminated with high nitrate concentrations from agriculture and, to a lesser extent, failing septic systems. Nitrate levels are higher in groundwater under agricultural land than in water below urban areas. Current regulations and voluntary best management practices will not be sufficient to maintain healthy groundwater and shield contaminated wells and aquifers from additional pollution. Even if all existing laws were followed to the letter, groundwater would still be subject to unacceptable levels of nutrients and other contaminants. Targeted action will be required to cut off unregulated sources of pollution.
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