A clogged sewer line is leaking under the ice into Shell Rock River in Nora Springs. (Photo courtesy of David Knoll/DNR)
Public works officials in Nora Springs observed untreated wastewater spilling from a manhole into Shell Rock River on Saturday and due to freezing temperatures, have been unable to clear the sewer line.
Adam Wymore, the public works director for Nora Springs, said because the river is frozen where the discharge is occurring, he does not know how much water is flowing into the river.
“We literally can’t see how much is coming out of it,” Wymore said.
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The water is flowing out of a manhole located on the bank of the river by the First Street SW bridge in Nora Springs.
Wymore said his crew tried to jet the line, which he suspects is blocked with tree roots, to clear it on Saturday, but they were unsuccessful. Typically, “jetting” a sewer line means to use a high-pressure water stream to clear obstructions. He said he hopes the weather will be warm enough Wednesday for the machines to operate and clear the line.
“We’re trying to get ‘er taken care of,” Wymore said. “Just waiting for the weather.”
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources was notified of the issue on Monday and is investigating the spill. No fish kills have been observed at this time, according to DNR.
Assessment on the impact to the river is limited by the ice. David Knoll, an environmental specialist with the department, said he observed an open water area at the site on Tuesday and did not see anything indicating the water quality was impaired.
“There was nothing out of the ordinary in that small section of open water,” Knoll said.
A press release from DNR said it will follow up with Nora Springs for further assessment of the situation.
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