Sewer-like stench on Clear Lake puzzles DNR staff

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The stench at Clear Lake might have a source similar to the algae bloom at Rock Creek State Park in 2013. Photo courtesy Iowa Environmental Council

CLEAR LAKE, Iowa — After many complaints made in the past few days about a strong sewer-like odor around Clear Lake, the Clear Lake Sanitary District (CLSD) reached out to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to investigate.

During the investigation, DNR staff and CLSD staff checked flow data and other records and inspected both wastewater lift stations located on the north shore and found everything to be working properly with no reports of any leaks or sewer-like odors.

The DNR staff reported Friday a significant amount of decaying aquatic vegetation, primarily curly leaf pondweed, along the north shore. A blue-green algae bloom was also observed and might potentially be causing the sewer-like stench.

Routine water sampling has verified there is not a sewer leak in Clear Lake. The DNR said it will continue to work with the CLSD to monitor the situation.

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