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In early May, a manure spill in Southwest Wisconsin had a devastating impact on at least eight miles of local streams. The incident led to the death of hundreds of fish, particularly wild brown trout. This pollution hit waterways that are usually known for their excellent water quality, capable of sustaining healthy trout populations. The source of this issue appears to be a nearby dairy farm, Brueggen Dairy, which manages 600 cattle. Heavy rains stirred runoff that washed manure into the streams.

Wisconsin has seen nine such manure spills this year alone. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), this particular spill has significant repercussions, as the affected waterways eventually flow into the Gulf of Mexico, contributing to oxygen-depleted areas, or “dead zones,” that harm marine life. In 2024, the dead zone in the Gulf covered approximately 6,705 square miles.

On May 17, a DNR officer responded to a tip about the spill and found dead fish along the streams. The DNR confirmed that the spill originated from a farm field treated with about 11,500 gallons of manure per acre, which is within acceptable limits, but heavy rainfall exacerbated the situation.

Farmers often apply manure as fertilizer, but over-application can lead to contamination of drinking water with harmful nitrates. While the dairy farm took steps to promote soil health, nature is unpredictable. Randy Brueggen, the farm owner, highlighted this challenge in a statement, underscoring their commitment to sustainable farming practices.

The DNR reports that more than 1,500 miles of streams in Wisconsin have impaired waters, largely due to manure and commercial fertilizer pollution. The Driftless region, where the spill occurred, complicates cleanup efforts due to its unique karst topography, characterized by steep gradients and thin soil.

Environmental experts stress the importance of managing agricultural runoff to prevent future contamination. They emphasize the need for sustainable farming practices and better stormwater management to protect these vital water sources.

The incident raises awareness about the link between agriculture and water quality. As we face climate change and increasing weather variability, these challenges will likely persist, demanding both innovative solutions and community engagement to ensure that waterways remain healthy for generations to come.



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