These warnings, posted mostly by Missouri's Department of Natural Resources (DNR), apply to swimming beaches testing high for E. coli bacteria counts.  In the last year the DNR has become more conscientious in posting these notices, having been stung by political criticism for being lax in this responsibility previously.  The source of these bacterial hazards for human health, although not specifically identified, has been suspected to center upon failing septics and inadequately treated effluent.

For some, including those who would otherwise enjoy the water and those whose economic livelihood depends either directly or indirectly on water, these warnings have an unsettling impact.  For others who scan the news these articles and warnings may only be a passing footnote in the news of the day.  To those committed to promoting clean and wholesome water resources, however, these headlines raise red flags and inspire redoubled efforts in their work.

High bacteria counts can be hazardous to human health and point to problems on land.  Although elevated bacteria may have many origins, wastewater systems, particularly failing septic tanks, are high on the list of suspect sources.  Proper installation and maintenance of these systems are crucially important to preventing their becoming contamination sources.

Unfortunately attention to these responsibilities too often falls in the "out of sight, out of mind" category.  Once installed, on-site systems (septic tanks) fall beyond regulatory control and their maintenance over the years relies on owners who are aware and knowledgeable about operating and maintenance requirements.

In cases where waste treatment facilities operate under permits, follow up compliance may not always be conscientiously checked.  The result of these deficiencies can be elevated bacterial counts, degraded water quality and periodic declarations of danger to human health.

Our Foundation's annual "status of the watershed" report tracks trends in water quality on a macro-scale throughout the Ozarks.  Fortunately, E. coli has not been a significant problem in any continuing way.  Excessive sediment and nutrients are much greater contributors to overall water quality concerns in our region.

This fact, however, should not diminish our attention to preventing bacterial outbreaks.  Education promoting awareness and understanding of this issue and ways to prevent problems will always be in order.  Advocacy for better wastewater treatment systems will also always be relevant.  With appropriate attention we should aspire to obviate the need for water warnings which have been too frequently in the news of late.