What is the Water Quality District?
Residents of Missoula depend on the Missoula aquifer for their drinking water. Accordingly, it is designated as a Sole-Source Aquifer by the EPA.
In the late 1980's, numerous contaminants such as petroleum, sewage, solvents and pesticides were discovered in the aquifer prompting the closure of some public supply wells. Residents recognized the connection between groundwater and surface water, as well as the benefits of protecting Missoula's water resources, and called for a local agency built on these core values. In 1993, the Missoula Valley Water Quality District was formed. The District is administered by the Missoula City-County Health Department and is governed by an 8-member board of local elected officials and engaged community members.
The Water Quality District leads Missoula County review of clean-up sites to ensure clean-up protects our sole-source aquifer, limits risks to the community and environment, and that these areas can once again be put to use.
