200 Gallons of Diesel Spilled Near Meta Data Center in Altoona During Generator Maintenance

Approximately 200 gallons of diesel fuel were spilled near the Meta Data Center in Altoona, Iowa, during generator maintenance on December 3, 2025. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported that some of the fuel entered a storm drain leading to an on-site retention pond, which was effectively containing the spill due to the closed outlet and ice cover.

The incident occurred at 6:30 a.m. while an employee from Turner Construction Company was refueling the generator, resulting in an overfill. Cleanup began shortly after the DNR received a spill report at 9:36 a.m.

Turner Construction engaged a liquid waste removal company for cleanup, while contaminated materials were addressed by an industrial cleaning company. An ongoing investigation by the DNR is expected to yield a follow-up report within 30 days.