The EPA is extending what started off as a 60-day public comment period as it considers adding Lake of the Ozarks to its list of impaired waterways in Missouri.

High nutrient levels in the lake are why the discussion’s happening.

Speaking with KB on the Morning Magazine, Warren Witt with Ameren Missouri points out Lake of the Ozarks had high water levels in 2018 due to flooding and that dynamic can create high nutrient levels due to sediments.

The public notice was given December 7^th, but the 45-days extension will now continue the public comment period until March 22^nd.

EPA Extends Public Comment Period on Missouri’s 2020 303(d) List Decision

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has extended until March 22, 2021, the public comment period on its decision to add 40 waters to Missouri’s CWA Section 303(d) List.

EPA issued a public notice on December 7, 2020, providing for a 60-day public comment period on 40 additions to Missouri’s CWA Section 303(d) List. This public comment period has been extended 45 days until March 22, 2021. After considering any comments received, EPA may make revisions, as appropriate, and will transmit its listings to Missouri for incorporation into Missouri’s water quality management plan. The public notice as well as the decision letter can be found here: https://www.epa.gov/mo/state-missouri-2020-list-impaired-waters