Missoula Considers Controlling Pollution in Waterways

MISSOULA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana Department of Environmental Quality is cracking down on stormwater discharges in Missoula beginning next year, saying improper stormwater discharge monitoring is ineffective and pollution monitoring and record keeping is lax.

Over the past year, Missoula has spent less than the other six largest cities in Montana to control pollutants that enter public waterways through stormwater runoff.

The city's Public Works Department is considering the creation of a stormwater utility that would cost residential property owners $9 per year and commercial property owners $23 per year.

According to the Missoulian , the Montana Department of Environmental Quality will require additional action to reduce stormwater discharges within Missoula effective Jan. 1.

Currently there are about 50 outlets that drain stormwater into the Clark Fork River and other waterways.