These differences probably are the result of land-use differences and the presence or absence of a protective confining layer between the aquifer and the land surface. Karst features in the Springfield and Salem Plateaus result in substantial interaction between surface water and ground water. The quality of surface water or ground water commonly is affected by the quality of the other. Many Ozark streams gain or lose substantial amounts of their flow through interactions with ground water. All of the water in this stream is going underground in this pool.
Springs are abundant in much of the Ozarks and are vulnerable to contamination.
Samples collected 1993. Samples collected 1970-92.