20K Gallons Of Liquid Manure Leaks From Storage Tank In MN

ALBANY, MN — Approximately 20,000 gallons of liquid manure leaked out of an above-ground storage tank in central Minnesota Wednesday. Mark Leukam, 63, of Albany, reported he had a leak from his tank that holds 400,000 gallons and currently contained about 350,000 gallons.

Authorities say the manure drained into the low land area, which contains an intermittent stream that flows easterly through several miles of swampy area before connecting with Krain Creek, north of Two Rivers Lake.

The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office contacted Stearns County Environmental Services and the State Duty Officer to report the event. Stearns County Deputies responded to the scene, along with the Holdingford Fire Department, Stearns County Highway Department, and an Environmental Services feedlot specialist.

Stearns County Emergency Management, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and the Department of Natural Resources were also notified.

The leak was eventually stopped with a temporary fix, according to a news release. A trench and dirt berm were dug to stop and contain any future leaks until the tank can be fixed.

The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office obtained aerial photos of the spill and surrounding area.

Ongoing arrangements are being made to empty the tank so the area causing the leak can be repaired. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will continue to monitor the spill and pumping efforts, and work with the farm owner to mitigate the spill.