Derby, Ohio-The Ohio EPA is investigating how a heavy downpour swept fertilizer from a holding trench at Derby Champaign Landmark into a creek and killed as many as 7,000 minnow fish. According to spokeswoman Erin Strouse, the incident July 22 didn’t involve a spill or a release, but rather contaminated water that was pushed out of the trench built around a concrete pad. Strouse said a state natural resources team walked a two-mile stretch of Greenbrier Creek to take a count of the dead fish and is continuing to look into the mishap. Field samples taken at the time showed ammonia concentrations in the water, but a laboratory analysis is needed for more conclusive results. In the meantime, she added, Champaign Landmark has pumped out the rest of the contaminated water in the trench and is bringing in a consulting geologist to recommend a remedy. She said a meeting was scheduled with all parties toward the end of the week to discuss methods of preventing future discharges. Nearby residents have been assured that the contaminated water has not affected their wells, which provide drinking and culinary supplies. Strouse said the facility experienced fertilizer spills several years ago and has undergone changes in ownership and management. A notice of violation is still under consideration.
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