JFAN Grant Supports Sierra Club Water Study

The Sierra Club Leopold Group conducted a water study of Walnut Creek last year to determine if nearby CAFOs were polluting the waterway. Walnut Creek, in northeast Jefferson County, is located in an area concentrated with factory farms.

The study examined if manure runoff or groundwater seepage caused an increase in the nutrient level of the creek. Beginning last March, five water samples were taken within 24 hours of a major rain event over a six-month period. Collections were taken both upstream and downstream of the CAFOs.

The lab results showed that during several months there were increased levels of ammonia, E.coli, and nitrates with elevated concentrations downstream of the confinement facilities. Since Walnut Creek is not classified as a designated stream, the results were not significant enough to cause the Iowa DNR to take any action.

Beginning in 2006, 26,000 miles of Iowa's waterways received a designation status, such as recreational use, that qualifies them for additional protection. New EPA guidelines may enable Walnut Creek to obtain designation in the future. 

According to Jack Eastman, a member of the Leopold Group involved in the sampling, the results show that more water testing is necessary. Many variables, such as the timing and location of manure applications, can impact on results, he says.

This study provided a valuable baseline for further tests. Eastman is hopeful that a yearlong bi-weekly testing program can be implemented to further explore the impact of the CAFOs on the creek's water quality.