DNR investigates potential wastewater entering stream in Shelby County

    HARLAN – The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating reports of land application of process wastewater potentially entering a stream after receiving numerous telephone calls from concerned citizens.
    A contractor was land applying wastewater from Essentia, a processing facility in Harlan (Shelby County) under its chapter 200 license, which is issued by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. However, the DNR received reports that the processed wastewater was entering the West Nishnabotna River after it was applied. DNR staff collected samples on Friday to determine if any wastewater reached the river.
    Prior to DNR staff leaving the site, the contractor installed an earthen berm to prevent any further discharge. The investigation is ongoing.
    The DNR will consider appropriate enforcement action, if necessary.