1. Sections 640.400 to 640.435 shall be known and may be cited as the “Missouri Water Resource Law”, in recognition of the significance of the conservation, development and appropriate use of water resources in Missouri.

2. The department shall ensure that the quality and quantity of the water resources of the state are maintained at the highest level practicable to support present and future beneficial uses. The department shall inventory, monitor and protect the available water resources in order to maintain water quality, protect the public health, safety and general and economic welfare.