749,000 fish in Iowa waterways were killed when 265,000 gallons of liquid nitrogen fertilizer was accidentally dumped into the East Nishnabotna River near Red Oak. Dr. Michelle Soupir, a Professor at Iowa State University with expertise in Nonpoint Source Pollution, waterways and watershed explains the impact, and cautions on drinking water in some parts of the state.

On March 9th, a valve at NEW Co-op was accidentally left open causing the spill, which has now killed an estimated 40,000 fish in Missouri. While Des Moines Water Works can utilize specialized treatment for high levels of Nitrate and Ammonia, not every water treatment plant in the state has the necessary technology. Dr. Soupir says water treatment plants are continuously checking water quality, but cautions Iowans downstream to check their well water. 

Listen to the discussion on treatment and how Iowa can prevent disasters like this in the future. https://iowapodcast.com/michelle-soupir-fertilizer-spill-new-coop-red-oak