September 8th, 2026 Local News
Leadwood, Mo. (KFMO) - The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is taking action to address major problems at the City of Leadwood's wastewater treatment facility after investigations found deteriorating equipment and elevated levels of E. coli in the Big River.
According to DNR, ongoing inspections revealed the city's aging wastewater treatment system is no longer effectively removing waste before treated water is discharged into the river. Officials say the deteriorating equipment has resulted in only partially treated wastewater being released.
Water quality testing conducted by the department found elevated E. coli levels both upstream and downstream of the treatment plant's discharge point. Samples collected August 3 at the facility's outfall and approximately 300 yards downstream measured greater than 2,419 colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL), the highest reading the department's testing equipment can record.
At the Missouri Department of Conservation access upstream of the wastewater discharge, E. coli measured 866 CFU/mL. For comparison, Missouri State Parks posts "Not Recommended for Swimming" advisories when E. coli levels reach 190 CFU/mL.
DNR says additional water samples have been collected and results will be released as they become available. The department is also testing for other contaminants to determine whether additional environmental or public health concerns exist.
The department has been working with the City of Leadwood since May 2026 to develop a long-term plan for improving the wastewater treatment system. Officials say the city's infrastructure, like many small communities across Missouri, has aged significantly and has not been adequately maintained over the years.
On August 4, Leadwood signed an Administrative Order on Consent with DNR. The agreement establishes a framework for correcting longstanding problems at the treatment facility, including engineering evaluations and plans for major upgrades.
However, officials say the treatment plant began experiencing significant operational failures in early July, prompting more than a dozen visits by DNR staff over the past month to assess conditions and provide technical assistance.
While permanent improvements are being developed, several temporary measures are already underway.
Leadwood's engineer has restored some of the wastewater aeration equipment to operation, while crews from the City of Bismarck are helping clear a plugged wastewater return line. Bismarck has also agreed to accept some of Leadwood's excess biosolids, and the Missouri Rural Water Association is assisting with a sludge management plan.
DNR is also expediting permit approvals for temporary improvements while engineers evaluate specialized equipment that could improve wastewater aeration until a new treatment facility can be designed and constructed.
The department's Financial Assistance Center is exploring funding opportunities that could help Leadwood purchase equipment needed to stabilize the system during the interim.
"As Leadwood's wastewater problem has become more clear, it has become an all-hands-on-deck operation to quickly address the issue," said DNR Director Kurt Schaefer. "I want to thank the City of Leadwood for their cooperation, the City of Bismarck and the Missouri Rural Water Association for their great assistance, and our partners at the Departments of Health and Senior Services and Conservation for their support."
DNR says it will continue intensive water quality monitoring on the Big River and will share sampling data with the Missouri Departments of Health and Senior Services and Conservation. Those agencies will determine whether public health advisories or additional public notices are necessary based on the water quality results.