DNR Investigating Hamilton County Manure Spill Near Ellsworth
Iowa DNR issued a news release announcing investigation of a manure spill reported on March 28 near Ellsworth in Hamilton County. Certified applicator Hovick Hauling was transporting liquid manure when the tank rolled into a road ditch, releasing an unknown amount into a surface tile intake that traveled approximately 1.5 miles before discharging to an unnamed tributary of the South Skunk River. The applicator contained part of the spill with an earthen dam, but an unknown quantity reached the river. DNR field staff found no evidence of fish kill. The department will determine if enforcement action is warranted.
MDEQ beach water quality advisories continue through September
MDEQ beach water quality advisories continue through September
Grants for Invasive Species Control and Habitat Restoration
NY DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced $5.1 million in grants to 51 projects statewide for invasive species control and habitat restoration. The funding supports four categories: aquatic invasive species prevention ($467,810), early detection/rapid response ($1.66M), research ($699,142), and restoration/resiliency ($2.29M). Recipients include SUNY Albany, RPI, Syracuse University, and Soil & Water Conservation Districts across New York State.
Bar-B Ranch Conservation Easement Protects Everglades
Florida DEP secured a 1,668-acre conservation easement over Bar-B Ranch in Martin County through the Florida Forever Program. The easement permanently protects a working cattle ranch that supports Everglades restoration by storing and filtering water while preventing future development. This acquisition was approved by Governor DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet.
Oregon DEQ Environmental Enforcement Penalties - February 2026
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality issued 10 civil penalties totaling $145,903 in February 2026 for environmental violations including asbestos abatement, stormwater discharge, and hazardous waste mismanagement. Fines ranged from $1,600 to $27,785 across 10 organizations including contractors, wood products companies, paint manufacturers, and a university.
Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Framework Adjustment 40 Specifications
NMFS published an interim final rule implementing Atlantic Sea Scallop Framework Adjustment 40, establishing fishing year 2026 and 2027 specifications including days-at-sea limits, limited access general category allocations, and modified area designations to prevent overfishing and optimize yield-per-recruit.
Tilefish fisheries 2026 proposed rule
Tilefish fisheries 2026 proposed rule, comment deadline Apr 14