01/15/2026
On December 22, 2025 it was brought to the attention of the Arbor Hills development team that there was an apparent city sewer line leak or overflow just north of the neighborhood pond. Joplin city works was notified and responded to the scene within two hours to analyze and resolve the sewer line clog. The analysis determined that the most likely cause was the improper disposal of a combination of large quantities of cooking grease as well as paper products such as baby wipes—neither of which decompose rapidly. Thanks to the City’s quick response, there was no sewage back up
into any neighborhood homes.
However, it was further determined that some of the overflow material had formed a small pool midway between the sewer line origin and the pond. While it remains unclear if the sewage material reached the pond, there appeared to be several dead fish present in the pond.
The Missouri Department of Conservation was subsequently summoned to the scene to conduct an on-site pollution and fish kill investigation. The inspector toured the area to include the sewer manhole covers and on to the pond. Chemical testing of the pond
revealed no presence of pollution. However, because of limited rainfall in previous recent weeks, the water level was 2-3 feet below normal. This caused reduced oxygen levels in the water resulting in the fish kill. As the water level normalizes following new rainfall, more drought tolerant fish will be introduced into the pond.
Last year Arbor Hills celebrated the thirtieth year since its initial development. The City of Joplin was fully engaged in the design, installation, and final inspection of the Arbor Hills facilities to include the sewer, power, street, and drainage systems. While we are pleased that this matter appears to be well in hand, residents are reminded to take care to properly dispose of waste items, such as the afore mentioned grease and paper products, that could clog our sanitary sewer system. Thank you.
Henry Hoffman
President, Westberry Farms, LLC
Send a message to learn more
