Dubuque Mobile Park Home Fined For Untreated Wastewater Discharge

In a recent move by Iowa’s environmental regulators, Northend Mobile Home Park near Dubuque was fined $3,000 for failing to follow state wastewater treatment guidelines. According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the mobile home park neglected to install a disinfectant system required to treat its wastewater before it was discharged into a nearby creek. This untreated wastewater, containing elevated levels of E. coli bacteria, flowed into a small, unnamed creek that ultimately feeds into the Little Maquoketa River.

The issue dates back to 2015 when Northend was granted a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, allowing it to release treated wastewater. As part of that permit, the mobile home park was required to install a disinfection system by September 2019 and meet safe E. coli levels by October 2019. However, the DNR noted that the park failed to meet these requirements, prompting multiple compliance warnings and violations in 2019 and 2020.

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E. coli, a type of bacteria commonly found in wastewater, is harmful at elevated levels. When present in high amounts, it can damage the health of nearby creeks and rivers, impacting both animals and people who may come into contact with the water. Fish and other aquatic life exposed to contaminated water can suffer from infections or even mass die-offs, affecting the local ecosystem and food chains. Additionally, animals that drink or feed on contaminated fish can become sick, amplifying the environmental impact.

As part of a recent consent order, Northend Mobile Home Park agreed to the fine and is now required to monitor and report its wastewater discharge to prevent further pollution. DNR environmental specialists explained that these types of permits are vital to ensuring that facilities discharge pollutants at safe levels and protect Iowa’s natural resources. The DNR’s goal is to keep Iowa’s waterways clean by enforcing these rules consistently and educating facilities on the importance of following environmental guidelines.

With this settlement, Northend Mobile Home Park has 60 days to pay the fine or appeal. The DNR hopes this enforcement action will serve as a reminder to others about the importance of environmental compliance to safeguard public health and preserve natural resources.