GARNER, Iowa, — The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating a copper release caused by a broken pipe at a facility near Garner.

The Iowa DNR says at approximately 7 a.m. they were notified of a broken pipe at the Zinpro facility, resulting in the release of an estimated 700 gallons of copper-containing liquid. The material then flowed into a storm drain on-site, eventually discharging into a drainage ditch on the west side of the facility.

The Iowa DNR says cleanup efforts are underway. The drainage ditch has been dammed a mile downstream to prevent further spread of the material.

Reports of dead fish have been confirmed in Drainage Ditch 81 between the Zinpro facility and Sioux Avenue, the Iowa DNR says. The water appears to have a blue hue, believed to be due to the copper release.

The Iowa DNR says residents in the area are advised to avoid contact with the water in Drainage Ditch 81.

To report a release after hours, please call the DNR’s emergency spill line at (515) 725-8694. Quick reporting can help DNR staff identify the cause of an incident. The DNR website has more information about spill reporting requirements.