Missouri DNR Awards $25 Million in Drinking Water and Lead Service Line Grants Across 30 Towns

JEFFERSON CITY, MO — The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced the approval of $25 million in financial assistance packages through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, providing direct capital grants and complete principal forgiveness loans to 30 rural municipalities and water supply districts.

Upgrading Rural Water Treatment and Eliminating Toxic Lead Pipes

The funding packages provide up to $1.2 million per municipality to replace legacy lead service lines, install computerized chlorination and filtration systems, and construct elevated water storage towers in small communities across the Ozarks and Northern Missouri. DNR environmental engineers noted that the grants ensure rural water systems meet stringent federal Lead and Copper Rule Improvements without imposing rate hikes on low-income rural households.

Governor Mike Parson highlighted that modern drinking water infrastructure is fundamental to public health and economic vitality in small-town Missouri.

Rural Water Association and Local Mayors Praise

The Missouri Rural Water Association (MRWA) commended the 100% principal forgiveness terms, noting that small towns with aging tax bases would otherwise be unable to finance utility replacements.

Participating mayors praised the streamlined DNR engineering review process.

Construction Rollout Schedule

Water infrastructure construction contracts across all 30 communities will begin bidding in October 2026.