Iowa DNR News
Environmental Services Division
DNR INVESTIGATES REPORT OF MANURE IN JEFFERSON COUNTY STREAM
MEDIA CONTACT: Ryan Stouder at (319) 461-5090 (cell) or (319) 653-2135 or [log in to unmask]
BATAVIA – The DNR investigated a complaint Tuesday that manure was running off a crop field into an unnamed tributary of Stump Creek near Batavia in Jefferson County.
The liquid manure was injected into the soil as it was land applied by James Boller with B. J. Hauling of Kalona on Monday morning. Manure pooled in low spots and began to run off the field into the stream.
An estimated 200 gallons reached the stream. There was no evidence of a fish kill although DNR staff found evidence of manure for one-fourth mile downstream on Tuesday.
The commercial manure applicator used tillage to help incorporate pools of manure. DNR staff required that he dike up low areas and pump up excess manure if necessary to prevent manure from leaving the field.
“In hilly areas, it’s important to check the edges of the field for erosion and watch low spots for runoff,” said Ryan Stouder, an environmental specialist at the DNR Washington field office. “Following contours as manure is applied could also help prevent runoff.”
The manure came from a hog confinement owned by Nick Adam.
The DNR will issue a notice of violation for lack of notification on the spill and consider other legal action as appropriate.
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Karen Grimes
Communications Bureau
Iowa DNR
502 East Ninth Street
Des Moines, IA 50319-0034
(515) 281-5135