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Quick action stops manure spill in Jefferson County

  • 11/25/2020 4:41:00 PM
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FAIRFIELD - DNR staff followed up today on a manure spill that occurred about 6:30 p.m. Monday.

Manure spilled as applicators from Maynard Manure Management were pumping manure from the E and H Livestock operation about seven miles northeast of Fairfield. The applicator, John Widmer, noticed manure running into an underground tile inlet near the building and quickly plugged the inlet. Then he plugged the tile line where it runs into North Walnut Creek.

“This is an example of how a fast response can prevent a potentially bigger problem, like a fish kill,” said Terry Jones, who investigated the incident. “The applicator dug down in the field and broke the tile line to recover the manure and ensure it couldn’t reach the creek. He was able to recover 800 gallons before flushing and pumping out the tile line with clean water to mop up any residual manure.”

The applicator estimates between 800 and 1,000 gallons may have spilled, with little, if any, reaching the creek.

Jones took water samples, but did not find elevated ammonia levels or dead fish downstream.

The DNR will monitor cleanup and consider appropriate enforcement action.

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