Mysterious light blue liquid flows into the eastern Nishnabotna River

On August 22, the DNR’s Atlantic field office received reports of a blue liquid in a watershed on the east bank of the East Nishnabotna River in Oakland, according to a news release. According to anonymous information submitted to the DNR, the blue liquid was first observed around August 11.

When DNR officials were notified, the blue liquid was in the depression near the river, not in the river. Soil stains in the area indicate that the blue liquid had likely reached the East Nishnabotna River before the DNR was notified.

A large sewer was discovered directly above the accumulated water. The Oakland City Council was notified and assisted the DNR in placing booms and absorbent pads to prevent further discharge into the river.

Water samples were taken and submitted to the state hygiene laboratory for analysis. No dead fish were observed.

Anyone with information about the incident should contact the DNR Atlantic Field Office at 712-243-1934.

To report a release during after-hours, call the DNR’s emergency hotline at 515-725-8694. A prompt report can help DNR personnel determine the cause of an incident.