Kris Ehlers reported Sunday that a valve on the tank had failed, releasing an unknown amount of manure. DNR staff found manure pooled near the tank and found that it had run into a grassed waterway.
During the investigation, DNR staff found a few dead fish, manure and elevated ammonia levels throughout four miles of a tributary of the North Raccoon River.
After checking for other potential sources of pollution Sunday and Monday, the DNR concluded the source was the manure release from the Ehlers farm, possibly through underground tile lines.
DNR took water samples for laboratory analysis. Staff is working with Ehlers and will monitor the cleanup, and consider appropriate enforcement action.
The DNR reminds producers and the public to report spills and fish kill by calling the 24-hour spill line at 515-725-8694 as soon as possible.