The leak happened on the east side of the CJ Bio America plant west of Fort Dodge on Monday morning. Cloudy water could be seen downstream for miles following the spill both Monday and Tuesday.

“(We) immediately instituted standard safety protocols to review, repair, and prevent further breach,” said Luke Palmer, director of environmental, social and governance for CJ Bio America.. “Our dedicated employees have been working day and night since the leak was discovered to investigate the source, implement cleanup, and ensure that any environmental impact is abated. We are working closely with federal and state agencies to assess the situation and implement necessary corrective and preventive measures.”

According to DNR Communications Chief Tammie Krausman, the amount of fertilizer byproduct released has not yet been confirmed.

“The leak has been stopped, however due to flow and access restrictions, placing berms in the creek is not an option at this time,” said Krausman.

-Messenger photo by Britt Kudla
A large fertilizer byproduct spill into the south branch of Lizard Creek in Webster County has led to dead fish being seen for miles downstream from the leak.

The DNR confirmed that dead fish have been seen for miles downstream from the leak, though Krausman said the number and species is not yet available. Water samples have also been collected by the DNR.

Despite social media rumors, Monday’s byproduct spill does not affect drinking water for the City of Fort Dodge.

“The city’s drinking water is sourced from deep well aquifers,” said Fort Dodge City Manager David Fierke. “Surface water does not influence the aquifers and therefore this spill cannot impact our drinking water. While the spill occurred outside city limits, city staff is prepared to assist the Iowa DNR or CJ Bio in any assessment, investigation, or mitigation efforts.”

According to Krausman, additional information will be made available as the investigation into the spill progresses.

“As members of the Webster County community, CJ Bio America is committed to ensuring that the place we call home is safe for our families and friends to enjoy for years to come,” said Palmer. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to environmental stewardship and the well-being of our communities and environment through our corporate initiatives and overall mission. Our pledge is to commit immediate resources to expedite cleanup and fish restocking efforts and renew our continuing support for clean waterways. Thank you for your understanding and for standing by us as we work through this issue. Our goal remains to be a great neighbor and resource to Fort Dodge and to the greater Iowa community.”

-Messenger photo by Britt Kudla
A large fertilizer byproduct spill into the south branch of Lizard Creek in Webster County has led to dead fish being seen for miles downstream from the leak.