Cross Timbers WWTP: Advanced Wastewater Treatment in Cross Timbers, Missouri

Cross Timbers WWTP is a municipal wastewater treatment facility located in Cross Timbers, Hickory County, Missouri. The plant serves a small population of 211 residents, reflecting its role in a rural community. As an advanced treatment plant, it provides a higher level of pollutant removal than conventional secondary treatment. The plant operates under the U.S. Clean Water Act, which requires National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for all discharges. For small advanced treatment plants like this, permits typically include effluent limits for biochemical oxygen demand, total suspended solids, and nutrients. The designed capacity of 90.85 units matches the current discharge volume, indicating the plant is operating at full capacity. The treated effluent is discharged into a local water body that ultimately drains into the Osage River basin, part of the larger Missouri River watershed. This river system supports diverse aquatic life and provides water for downstream communities. The advanced treatment helps protect water quality in this sensitive inland watershed.

The plant discharges into a tributary of the Osage River, which flows into the Missouri River and eventually the Mississippi River. The watershed supports diverse aquatic species and is used for recreation and agriculture. Advanced treatment reduces nutrient loading, helping to prevent eutrophication in downstream lakes and reservoirs.