Big springs feed the rivers from a karst plumbing system

Shannon County is spring country. Round Spring, Alley Spring, and Blue Spring are among the large springs that pour cold, clear water into the Current and Jacks Fork.

These springs are visible outlets of a karst landscape. In karst, water moves through dissolved limestone and dolomite instead of filtering slowly through deep soil. That plumbing helps make the springs beautiful and steady. It also means pollution can move from sinkholes or losing streams toward springs and wells.

For visitors, the springs are river-corridor highlights. For landowners, the same geology is a reason to be careful with septic systems and anything that could reach groundwater. Use the National Park Service and Missouri Geological Survey for the official background.