(Peterson)– The source of manure found in a stream in Clay county has been traced to a 4,000 head swine confinement near Peterson.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources says it responded this (Mon.) morning to a report of manure in the water of a stream near Peterson. DNR officials say it traced the manure to a hog confinement owned by Bruce Click of Peterson. Click told DNR officials he pumped liquid manure from pits under the buildings to a nearby field after a tile broke, flooding the pits. He was not aware the manure was leaving the field.
Field tests showed elevated ammonia levels in an unnamed stream downstream of the application field. The stream flows about two miles before entering the Little Sioux River.
DNR staffers are checking the creek to see if ammonia has affected the fish and other aquatic life.
The agency says it will continue to monitor the situation and consider appropriate enforcement action.
