DNR Investigates Fish Kill at Otter Creek in Oelwein

The DNR is investigating a fish kill in Fayette County this week.

Nearly one thousand fish were killed in an unnamed tributary to Otter Creek that flows through Oelwein. 

The DNR says this is a natural kill caused by extremely warm water temperatures and low flow conditions on the stream. Just over two miles of stream was affected by the warm water. Species primarily affected include smaller minnows, dace and suckers – but investigators also saw live fish of multiple species in the same locations that appeared in good condition. 

If you see dead fish when you are at a lake or river, call the DNR’s 24-hour spill line at 515-725-8694. Quick reporting can help DNR staff identify the cause and potentially stop a fish kill in progress.