Missouri Parks, Soils and Water Sales Tax Set To Go Before Voters In 2026

LEWIS COUNTY, MO- Missouri voters will be asked in 2026 whether to renew the state’s parks, soils and water sales tax, a one-tenth-cent sales tax that helps fund Missouri state parks, historic sites and soil and water conservation efforts.

The tax is set to expire in 2028 if it is not renewed by voters in 2026.

First approved by Missouri voters in 1984, the tax has helped provide long-term funding for the Missouri state park system and local soil and water conservation work across the state. The issue now appears before voters every 10 years for renewal.

According to information from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the tax helps support the operation, maintenance and improvement of Missouri’s state parks and historic sites, while also helping fund soil and water conservation programs for landowners.

The Missouri state park system includes state parks and historic sites across the state. The funding helps keep parks open, maintain facilities, preserve historic buildings, protect natural areas and support trails, campgrounds and other public resources.

The soil and water portion of the tax supports voluntary conservation practices used by Missouri landowners. Those efforts include work designed to reduce soil erosion, improve water quality and protect Missouri’s natural resources.

The tax also helps fund local soil and water conservation districts, technical assistance and cost-share programs that help landowners implement conservation practices on their property.

Supporters of the program say the tax has played a major role in preserving Missouri’s outdoor resources while helping farmers and landowners protect soil and water for future generations.

The 2026 vote will determine whether the funding continues beyond its current expiration date. If renewed, the tax would continue supporting Missouri state parks, historic sites and soil and water conservation efforts.