Iowa DNR is investigating manure runoff into an unamed tributary of Sevenmile Creek. (Photo courtesy of Iowa DNR)
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating and helping to clean up an unnamed tributary of Sevenmile Creek in Montgomery County that had reports of manure runoff this week from a nearby feedlot.
The runoff occurred during recent rain events at a small feedlot of around 100 cattle. Kaitlynne Henriksen an environmental specialist with DNR, said it is unknown how much manure washed into the small creek.
The incident was reported Thursday morning by Secondary Roads employees, according to Henriksen. The feedlot is located northwest of Morton Mills.
Henriksen said she suspects the tributary was dry prior to the recent rains, and there is no evidence of any fish in the tributary, nor were there any fish reported dead downstream in Sevenmile Creek.
Duane Bergren, Jr., the owner of the small feedlot, has been assisting in cleanup efforts and the runoff has been stopped. Henriksen said she was headed to the site to help pump the runoff out of the tributary bed.
“The landowner is currently working on preventing any future manure going into the creek,” Henriksen said.
The department has taken water samples and is waiting on test results. Iowans are advised to avoid using water from Sevenmile Creek until DNR has determined it is safe from contamination.
Henriksen said the investigation is ongoing.
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