ND feedlot under investigation  

Authorities in Ward County, ND, are investigating a rural feedlot after reports of improper livestock disposal and possible environmental violations.  

According to the Minot Daily News, Ward County Sheriff Robert Roed said the site northeast of Surrey houses an estimated 8,000-9,000 head of cattle. Investigators initially discovered about 200 dead cattle piled in the open.  

After obtaining a search warrant, officials removed 472 deceased cattle from an open pit and disposed of them according to state law.  

North Dakota statutes require livestock to be properly disposed of within 36 hours. The Department of Environmental Quality was notified, and potential permitting and water pollution concerns remain under review.