News release from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources on two manure spills that occurred in southwest Iowa, forwarded by Jane Clark. Iowa DNR News Environmental Services Division For immediate release March 9, 2007 For more information, contact Dan Olson, Atlantic DNR Field Office, (712) 243-1934 or (712) 250-0093; or call Kevin Baskins at (515) 249-2814. DNR INVESTIGATES MANURE SPILLS IN SHELBY AND MONTGOMERY COUNTIES ATLANTIC - The DNR began investigating complaints Friday and found two manure spills caused by runoff from open cattle feedlots in Shelby and Montgomery Counties. DNR staff members were on site in both locations late Friday afternoon to ensure that the spills were contained to prevent additional damage downstream. The melting of recent snowfalls has contributed to the runoff. "This is the time of year when it's really important for livestock producers to check their manure storage and make sure that it's not close to overflowing," said Dan Olson, an environmental specialist with the Atlantic DNR field office. "Runoff from open feedlots is most likely to occur when winter snows melt and spring rains begin. Open lot producers should check the downstream side of their lots for signs of run-off," he added. "Frequent lot scraping and maintenance can also help prevent problems." In Shelby County, manure runoff from the Jeff Hundt feedlot reached the West Nishnabotna River about two and one-half miles south of Harlan. County officials and the Harlan Fire Department are working to contain feedlot run-off before it reaches the stream. The DNR fisheries crew did not observe any dead fish and said that ammonia levels of 10 to 15 mg/liter would probably not be toxic given the cold water temperatures. In Montgomery County, manure from an open feedlot owned by Richard Steen reached Indian Creek and Crabapple Creek about two miles east of Emerson on Old Highway 34. The DNR will continue to investigate and will take legal action if appropriate. - 30 - Karen Grimes 515-281-5135 [log in to unmask] - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the IOWA-TOPICS list, send any message to: [log in to unmask] Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp