People should avoid North Raccoon River after wastewater release, Iowa DNR says
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is warning residents to avoid a portion of the North Racoon River near Adel after a valve malfunctioned at a nearby wastewater plant.
Residents are warned to stay clear of the river directly below the Adel wastewater treatment facility located at 308 N. Fifth St. after a "pool of partially treated waste" began to collect in the area.
A broken valve at the facility caused the unexpected release, causing "liquids with suspended solids" to pool in the river near the plant, according to a news release from the DNR. The waste underwent ultraviolet disinfection treatment but did not undergo complete disinfection, the agency said.
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The faulty valve has been repaired. DNR recommends river users avoid the area until the pool of waste dissipates.
Francesca Block is a breaking news reporter at the Des Moines Register. Reach her at FBlock@registermedia.com or on Twitter at@francescablock3.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Wastewater released into North Raccoon River near Adel
