The state governments of Missouri and Arkansas are expected to sign an agreement this year to create a watershed and aquifer protection pact geared at controlling water quality from sources that cross state boundaries.
"Missouri pushed for the pact, and it's been in development for months, Randy Young, director of the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission, said Wednesday."
"Edward Swaim, an attorney for the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission, said a memorandum he gave to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette is a final version. Kerry Cordray, a spokesman for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, said "there are still some final points being agreed upon." The document shows the states intend to cooperate regarding "water quality and water quantity issues involving surface and ground water resources." It calls for Missouri and Arkansas agencies dealing with water issues to meet at least annually, starting next year with the first meeting in Arkansas."
"The Springfield Plateau and Ozark aquifers include large areas of northern Arkansas and almost all of southern Missouri."
"There are joint watersheds, too, like the one that feeds the White River. The river starts south of Fayetteville, flows north to create Beaver Lake, then flows into Missouri north of Eureka Springs and into Table Rock Lake. It returns to Arkansas near Diamond City in Boone County, forming Bull Shoals Lake."
FULL STORY: Pact to protect shared waters set for signing
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