Report finds troubling bacteria levels in Southwest Missouri creeks
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Several Southwest Missouri waterways showed potentially unsafe bacteria levels during recent testing, including one Jasper County creek with a reading nearly seven times a federal safety benchmark.
A report from Environment Missouri found Sycamore Creek in Newton County exceeded the benchmark on all seven days it was tested in 2024.
In Jasper County, elevated E. coli levels were detected in Center, Jenkins and Jones creeks during testing in 2024 and 2025. The highest reading came from Jenkins Creek near County Road 100.
High readings were also recorded in Center Creek near Highway 43, Smithfield, Oronogo and other locations. Turkey Creek near Joplin and the Spring River above Carthage were below the benchmark when sampled.
Statewide, potentially unsafe levels were found at least once at 85% of the locations tested.
The findings do not mean the waterways are always contaminated or currently unsafe. Bacteria levels can change rapidly, especially following heavy rain.
The report said possible sources include sewage overflows, failing septic systems, stormwater runoff and animal waste.
Researchers are calling for more testing and greater investment in water and sewer infrastructure.
