DES MOINES - The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating a wastewater discharge at the City of Fort Dodge in Webster County.
On February 27, the DNR Field Office in Mason City received a call from the City of Fort Dodge regarding a wastewater discharge due to a broken force main. The force main, which carries industrial wastewater from the cityβs industrial park to the wastewater treatment plant, discharged the wastewater into a tributary of the South Branch of Lizard Creek.
DNR field staff responded to the incident, and upon arrival observed wastewater approximately two miles downstream from where the tributary empties into the South Branch of Lizard Creek.
Repairs are underway. Water samples have been collected. No dead fish have been observed and the investigation is ongoing. The Iowa DNR will follow up with the city for further assessment.
To report a release after hours, please call the DNRβs 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.