WAUKEE - The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating a diesel fuel spill at Little Walnut Creek in Dallas County.
On May 3, the DNR Field Office in Des Moines was notified of a diesel fuel spill at an agricultural site near Dallas Center. An above-ground storage tank containing diesel fuel began leaking around 2:30 a.m., releasing approximately 4,000 gallons of fuel. The majority of the fuel was initially contained on-site, in a nearby pond and the immediate area surrounding the storage tank.
Later in the day, residents in Waukee reported strong fuel odors near Little Walnut Creek, extending to 156th Street. Local officials confirmed that an unknown amount of diesel fuel had entered the creek, which outlets to Walnut Creek in the Clive area. In response, absorbent booms were placed in Little Walnut Creek to limit the spread of the contamination.
The DNR and local officials are actively monitoring the situation. No dead fish have been observed along the affected section of the creek. As a precaution, the public is advised to stay out of the creek at this time. While residents along the creek may smell the fuel, there is no health threat to the public. The DNR will work with local jurisdictions involved for further assessment. The cause of the spill remains under investigation.
To report a release after hours, please call the DNR’s emergency spill line at (515) 725-8694. Quick reporting can help DNR staff identify the cause of an incident. The DNR website has more information about spill reporting requirements.