Sept. 6, 2025
MADISON, Wis. — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is investigating a manure spill in Taylor County that has led to fish deaths and contamination of Trappers Creek, a tributary of the Black River.
The spill, which occurred earlier this week, was reported to the DNR’s Violation Hotline on Friday, Sept. 5. DNR officials say dead fish were observed in the creek, indicating significant ecological impact. The agency is working alongside the Taylor County Land Conservation Department and a local farmer to determine the cause of the spill and assess its full extent.
As of Saturday, DNR staff remain on-site monitoring water quality and evaluating potential cleanup and mitigation strategies. No further details have been released, and department representatives are currently unavailable for interviews.
Trappers Creek flows into the Black River, a vital waterway in north-central Wisconsin. Environmental advocates warn that nutrient-rich manure spills can lead to oxygen depletion, fish kills, and long-term damage to aquatic ecosystems.
For more information on manure spill response and prevention, visit the Wisconsin DNR’s manure spills resource page.
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