KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Approximately 100 cubic yards of horse manure have slid down a steep slope, blocking an unnamed creek near West Snoqualmie Valley Road and NE 80th outside of Redmond. The affected stream flows into Ames Creek and, then, the Snoqualmie River.
At present, the manure is blocking the creek, restricting water flow and creating a manure dam. Some water flow through the blockage continues. Should this dam break, a dairy farm, farm animals, and a road potentially could be threatened.
Public Health officials are currently assessing the risk to the public's health. Until the assessment is complete early this afternoon, the public is advised to do the following:
- Avoid consumption of and contact with water from this stream as well as that of Ames Creek and the Snoqualmie River downstream from the entry of the potentially contaminated water;
- Assure that domestic animals avoid consumption of and contact with this water.
Public Health officials do not believe that local well water will be affected by this incident.
Those having questions may call Public Health - Seattle & King County at (206) 296-4600.
