MO American Water Selects Site of New Reservoir

The site of a new water reservoir has been recommended by Missouri American Water. The company has chosen Site C, which is located to the east of I-49, and south of Highway V. They’ll now apply for a permit with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers within the next 30-60 days, but the permit process could take up to two years. As part of this process, several public meetings will take place, and property owners will soon be contacted about the possible sale of their property.

“We understand those affected will have questions and we are committed to working with the community on this much-needed solution,” Matt Barnhart, senior operations manager, southwest division. “Additionally, as we have said in previous public meetings, we are also committed that property owners will receive just compensation based on the fair market value of their properties.”

Company officials say the reservoir is necessary to address the critical and growing water supply shortage for the Joplin region.  Since 2012, Missouri American Water’s Joplin Operation has come within hours of having to enact mandatory water conservation measures, three times due, to low flows in Shoal Creek.  In addition, the aquifer used to supplement water supply during the summer months, has limited capacity. The construction and activation of the reservoir is essential in an effort to eliminate any low flow water crisis and provide safe, clean reliable water to the Joplin community.

Several options were considered to address the water supply issue including 12 possible reservoir locations.  Additional wells were ruled out due to the declining water levels in the aquifer.