The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is investigating a fish kill in Hardin creek, about two miles east of Jefferson. A report came in to the field office at around 5 p.m. on Wednesday when staff members of the local United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Service Center found dead fish while stream sampling. Although there is little information as of yet to report, the DNR says there are different sizes and species of fish in the at least three-mile long affected area. The source and extent of the fish kill are still under investigation. Authorities are cautioning livestock producers downstream to consider utilizing alternative water sources until the contaminant has been identified. Residents should keep children and pets out of Hardin Creek for 24 to 48 hours after the pollutant is cleared. Anyone who sees an obvious pollutant in a body of water or sees a fish kill is encouraged to contact the DNR through their 24-hour spill line at 515-725-8694. Authorities say the earlier notifications are received, the easier it is for them to trace the pollutant.
