Picture submitted by DNR Atlantic Office
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is currently investigating dark colored water in a stormwater drainage ditch near the North Raccoon River over by Jefferson. The stormwater ditch is located in Daubendiek Park in southwest Jefferson, which does drain into the North Racoon River. The DNR Field Office in Atlantic responded and observed multiple pockets of discovered water, collected samples and are waiting for results from the State Hygienic Laboratory. Officials are looking into the cause of the discolored water, but believe it has not reached the North Raccoon River and no fish or other wildlife have observed to be dead in the area. Clean up efforts are underway and residents are advised to avoid contact with the water in the drainage ditch at this time. The City of Jefferson Public Works staff and the Greene County Sheriff’s Office also assisted the DNR Office at the scene.
