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The South Grand River Watershed Alliance Formed

 

The state of Missouri is rich in water resources, with over 56,000 miles of free flowing streams. The waterways of Missouri are beneficial to all inhabitants of the state and indirectly beneficial to the nation as a whole.  Missouri Stream teams (http://www.mostreamteam.org) strive to assist in the proper management of these waterways.

Each Stream Team attempts to bring together public and private resources to reach the goals of the programs:  to address the issues involving stream alteration and pollution on a local basis by involving members of the community and educating them on the importance of water quality, and conservation of natural resources; to draw together public and private resources to implement solutions across jurisdictional lines; and to help communities appreciate streams for their beauty and function and as valuable assets through education and group involvement in the program.

Some area Stream Team groups have joined together to form the South Grand River Watershed Alliance to promote a basin wide approach to address the water quality and ecological health of the South Grand River and its tributaries. The Alliance will work to reduce water quality impacts in these waters by developing local watershed awareness among students, teachers, the public at large, and municipal, corporate, county, and state entities whose decisions affect the quality of the South Grand River.

 The South Grand River Watershed Alliance is committed to seeking and providing information that will contribute to diminishing impacts in the watershed and lead to improved water quality, habitat, beautification and more livable communities.

Piecemeal solutions frequently cause more problems than they solve. Real progress calls for building an understanding of the problems, involving concerned citizens, and bringing conflicting interests and political jurisdictions together. Answers differ from one watershed to the next, and government often lacks the authority, manpower, and administrative flexibility to address diverse concerns in an integrated fashion.

Perhaps most important, Stream Teams help communities appreciate and recognize the value of our streams and waterways.  Missouri's beautiful streams drew settlers to the state and enrich our lives today. While there have been some successes in addressing our state’s water quality, there remain many problems that need to be addressed to prevent further deterioration and bring about improved water quality. With determination and imagination, rivers and streams will be enjoyable and cherished by generations yet to come.  For information contact (816) 779-6708 or (816) 331-2824.