What is the Missoula Valley Water Quality District?
Residents of Missoula depend on the Missoula Aquifer for 100% of their drinking water. Accordingly, it is designated as a Sole-Source Aquifer by the EPA. In the late 1980's, numerous contaminants li 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. The Missoula Valley Water Quality District was formed in 1993. The District is administered by the Missoula City-County Health Department and is governed by an eight member board of local elected officials and engaged community members.
What is the Pollution Prevention Program?
The Water Quality District's pollution prevention permitting program applies to facilities that handle regulated substances in large quantities within the District's Ordinance Boundary. The permitting process requires facilities to develop a spill prevention plan, provide training, implement applicable Best Management Practices, and be prepared for emergencies. Because our aquifer is so vulnerable to contamination, facilities that do not store large enough quantities to require a permit will in some cases be required to secondarily contain their chemicals. The WQD periodically inspects permitted facilities to ensure compliance. We also review new businesses as they open to ensure proper controls and if necessary, permits, are in place.
- MCA Title 75, Chapter 5: Water Quality
- Missoula Municipal Code Title 13, Ordinance 3699, Chapter 13.26: Missoula Valley Water Quality Code
- Administrative Rule #37: Best Management Practices for Pollution Prevention (BMP Manual)
- Interlocal Agreement between the City of Missoula and the Missoula Valley Water Quality District