Ongoing wastewater discharge in Mt. Pleasant

Mt. Pleasant Utilities notified the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) of an ongoing wastewater discharge within the city Wednesday afternoon.

The city discovered untreated wastewater entering a storm sewer while repairing a water line near 802 West Washington St. About four to five gallons per minute of wastewater was flowing through the storm sewer to Saunders Branch, north of Washington Street.

The DNR recommends keeping children and pets away from the creek, especially in Saunders Park, until after repairs are complete.

Rick Mullin, director of public works, said repairs should be done today (Thursday). Mullin said Kenney and Sons Excavating and Grading, Inc., would be handling the work.

The city is not sure when the discharge began, but suspect it may be related to construction activity over the last few years, according to a statement from the DNR. Brian Lee, with the DNR?s Washington office, said at this point, the DNR does not foresee any long-term issues or impact to the creek or to the general public.

The DNR is monitoring repair work.