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Home » Video » Fixing Iowa's Sewage Pollution Problems

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Fixing Iowa's Sewage Pollution Problems


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There are many ways Iowans pollute their waterways: manure runoff from livestock feeding operations, underground tiles that drain excess water that often contains fertilizer from farm fields to a nearby river or creek, leaking underground fuel tanks and septic sewage systems.

There is also a threat from many of the more than 1,200 underground municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities. Statewide, much of the underground infrastructure is 50 to 100 years old -- and crumbling.

The cost to replace underground pipes and upgrade treatment facilities can cost communities millions of dollars. But if pollution violations persist, communities can face up to a $10,000 fine from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

The Iowa Journal visits Boone and Sheldahl, two communities facing such fines until they moved forward with costly upgrades.


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Post Date: May 15, 2008


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