EPA was requested by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the Marion County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) to provide air monitoring support in response to a fire at the Two Rivers Cooperative in Otley, Iowa. The fire began on March 31, 2025, and had impacted the fertilizer storage shed containing bulk stockpiles of urea, potash, sulfur, and monoammonium phosphate. As a result of the fire, a voluntary evacuation of several residences in the near vicinity was recommended.
EPA mobilized to the site on April 2, 2025. The fire was extinguished just prior to EPA's arrival; however, the collection of air monitoring data was requested to assist with evacuation decision-making.
On April 2 and 3, 2025, EPA collected real-time air monitoring data from stationary and roving locations within the site footprint; along the site perimeter; and within the surrounding community. Air monitoring results were representative of background concentrations, excluding readings of sulfur dioxide directly downwind of the fire-impacted bulk sulfur storage area.
Air monitoring conducted on April 3 determined sulfur dioxide concentrations had decreased significantly and did not exceed health-based screening levels. Air monitoring results were communicated to the Marion County EMA, and in coordination with the Pella Fire Department Chief, the evacuation was lifted on April 3, 2025.
No additional EPA activities are planned in support of this response.
