The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating a copper spill near Garner. The DNR says about 700 gallons of copper-containing liquid were released early yesterday (Thu. Aug. 28) morning after a pipe broke at the Zinpro facility. The material flowed into a storm drain and discharged into Drainage Ditch 81, west of the plant.
Cleanup is underway, and a dam has been placed about a mile downstream to stop the spread. The affected Drainage Ditch flows southwest from Garner to the East Branch of the Iowa River. Officials have confirmed a fish kill in the ditch, where the water has taken on a blue color.
Residents are being asked to avoid contact with water in Drainage Ditch 81.
