The Nishnabotna Settlement: 

What’s Next for Iowa Water?

Neil D. Hamilton— emeritus agriculture law professor, author, and speaker 

We’re excited to share the recorded presentation of The Nishnabotna Settlement: What’s Next for Iowa Water? with Neil D. Hamilton, one of Iowa’s most respected voices on agricultural law and conservation.

This important conversation takes a closer look at the March 2024 fish kill, when approximately 265,000 gallons of liquid nitrogen fertilizer spilled from a NEW Co-op facility into the East Nishnabotna River.

Highlights include:

• Legal insights from Neil Hamilton — unpacking the case and its broader implications for Iowa’s waterways.
• Details of the settlement — on July 30, 2025, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird announced that NEW Co-op will pay a $50,000 penalty and contribute another $50,000 toward a supplemental environmental project with the Montgomery County Conservation Board.
• Community perspectives — hear from the Nishnabotna Water Defenders, including their eye-catching “Know What You Drink” billboard, along with other local voices.
  This recorded Zoom presentation is not just a recap of the case—it’s an invitation to think about the future of Iowa’s rivers, streams, and communities.
• About Neil D. Hamilton:  Neil is emeritus professor of law at Drake University, a nationally recognized authority on agricultural law, conservation, and natural resources. He is also a widely published author and sought-after speaker.
• Watch the presentation, join the dialogue, and be part of shaping Iowa’s water future!