For too long, residents have witnessed what appears to be an ongoing discharge of untreated or inadequately treated sewage into a local stream in Leadwood, Missouri. This is not simply an inconvenience, it is a matter of public health, environmental protection, and government accountability. Raw sewage can contain harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other contaminants that threaten people, wildlife, and downstream waterways. Missouri’s streams belong to all of us, and they deserve to be protected—not treated as disposal sites for untreated waste. Communities should never have to wonder whether the water flowing through their neighborhoods is contaminated because critical infrastructure has been allowed to deteriorate or because known problems have gone unresolved.

We recognize that aging infrastructure and unexpected equipment failures can happen. However, when sewage discharges continue over an extended period of time, residents deserve transparency, accountability, and a clear plan to permanently resolve the problem.

We are calling upon federal, state, and county leaders—including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the Governor of Missouri, our elected representatives, and local officials—to work together to ensure this matter receives the attention it deserves.

Specifically, we ask for:

     • An immediate investigation into the reported sewage discharge.
     • A comprehensive inspection of Leadwood’s wastewater collection and treatment system.
     • Public disclosure of the findings.
     • A permanent corrective action plan with measurable deadlines.
     • Appropriate enforcement if violations of environmental laws are identified.
     • Continued oversight until the problem has been fully resolved.

This petition is not about politics.

It is about protecting public health.

It is about preserving Missouri’s natural resources.

It is about ensuring that environmental laws are applied fairly and consistently, regardless of the size of the community involved.

Every Missourian deserves clean streams, clean water, and confidence that public officials will act when environmental concerns are brought to their attention.

If you believe our communities deserve safe waterways and responsible stewardship of our environment, please sign this petition and help us urge our leaders to take immediate action.

Together, our voices can make a difference.