Following the heavy rainfall and flash flooding of the last several days, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is recommending that Iowans stay out of streams until the water recedes. The dangers of fast moving currents are not the only concern with high waters, they may also contain dangerous debris and bacteria. “For their own safety, we encourage people to stay out of the water until several days after streams return to normal,” says Scot Wilson, from the DNR’s Spencer field office. “About 70 wastewater discharges have been reported over the Memorial Day weekend and the calls are still coming in,” Wilson says. “With more rain predicted, additional discharges are expected.” Both the Iowa DNR and the Department of Public Health have helpful links for people dealing with disasters and flood cleanup. Some livestock facilities have had two to four or more inches of rain. Those that are discharging or expecting to discharge should contact their local DNR field office. After hours, they can contact the DNR emergency spill line at 515-725-8694 and more requirements can be found on the DNR website, a link to which is included here.
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Iowa DNR dealing with disasters: https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Social-Media-Press-Room/Disaster-Assistance?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Iowa Department of Public Health flood cleanup: http://idph.iowa.gov/flooding?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Iowa DNR spill reporting requirements: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Environmental-Protection/Land-Quality/Emergency-Planning-EPCRA/Spill-Reporting?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
