On May 24, 2011, a biologist working for Prairie Rivers Network observed an unpermitted discharge of livestock waste into a small stream. The waste appeared to be coming from a cattle operation located near the stream, which is on Illinois EPA’s 303(d) list of impaired waters.
Prairie Rivers Network staff immediately notified Illinois EPA and requested that an inspection be done as soon as possible to both catch and stop the discharge. Unfortunately, 48 hours after making this request, Illinois EPA had still not made it out to the site. With all the rain we have been having, speedy inspections are critical for documenting discharges before they wash away.
The Illinois EPA is familiar with this facility and previously recommended it seek technical assistance from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Based on a past inspection, the cattle operation has an outdated and inadequate manure management system. Unfortunately, this operation is not alone – many others around the state likewise discharge because of inadequate waste storage capacity. If you know of a livestock operation that pollutes nearby waterways, please report it to the Illinois EPA by calling 888-372-1996.
Prairie Rivers Network will continue to follow this case and press for permanent changes that protect the stream.
