Natural Oil Spill Cleanup in Iowa: How We Restore Water Safely
When the recent oil spill in the West Nishnabotna River made headlines, I started getting messages:
“Can your company help clean this up?”
The answer is yes — and I want to explain how.
I’m Jessica Niskin, founder of Show Me The Carbon, a local Iowa-based company that specializes in natural oil spill cleanup and eco-friendly water remediation. We work with nature — not against it — using a combination of biochar, beneficial bacteria, and biodegradable materials to clean up petroleum spills, sludge, and other hydrocarbon contamination.
If you’re a landowner, farmer, or agency looking for a cleaner, safer way to restore a polluted site — keep reading.
🔹 1. Biochar for Oil Absorption
We manufacture our own micronized biochar, a carbon-rich material with high surface area. Think of it like a sponge that pulls oil, chemicals, and toxins out of the water or soil. It’s completely biodegradable and leaves the land better than it found it.
🔹 2. Oil-Eating Microbes (Oleophilic Bacteria)
We use natural, non-pathogenic microbes that feed on hydrocarbons. These bacteria break down oil into safe byproducts like water and carbon dioxide. It’s real, regenerative hydrocarbon cleanup powered by nature.
🔹 3. Biosurfactants for Natural Emulsification
Biosurfactants are plant- or microbe-derived agents that help oil break into smaller droplets so microbes can digest it faster. Ours are safe, fully biodegradable, and ideal for eco-friendly oil spill treatment.
Our 5-Step Cleanup Process:
We mix a custom blend of biochar, microbes, nutrients, and biosurfactants
We apply the blend directly to the contaminated area
The biochar absorbs the oil, giving microbes a place to live and work
The bacteria begin digesting hydrocarbons
We monitor and reapply if needed until the site recovers
Why This Method Matters
Unlike chemical dispersants or synthetic treatments, our method is:
✅ Wildlife-safe
✅ Effective on both water and land
✅ 100% biodegradable
✅ Made locally and carbon-negative
Whether it’s an active spill or ongoing contamination from a farm or field, we can help restore it — naturally.
Ready to Restore?
I live here. I care about our rivers, lakes, and soil. And I’ve built a system that works naturally, safely, and effectively. If you want help — or just want to talk through options — reach out. I’ll give you straight answers and real support.
📞 Call or Text: 305-790-0044
✉️ Email: support@showmethecarbon.com
🌐 Website: www.showmethecarbon.com
Let’s bring clean water and healthy soil back to Iowa — one site at a time.
— Jessica
Founder, Show Me The Carbon
A Midwestern river like the West Nishnabotna, where oil spill recovery is urgently needed.
Natural Oil Spill Cleanup in Iowa | Show Me The Carbon
How Biochar Can Revolutionize Nutrient Management in Southwest Iowa
Tired of Murky Ponds or Losing Valuable Nutrients from Your Fields?
You're not alone. Farmers and landowners across Southwest Iowa are looking for smarter ways to manage nutrients without waste. Biochar is a simple, effective solution that keeps nutrients where they belong—boosting soil fertility and protecting water quality.
Excess nutrients shouldn't be a problem—they should be a resource. If you're a farmer, landowner, or wastewater manager in Southwest Iowa, you know how crucial it is to maintain balance: keeping nutrients in the soil while ensuring clean water for your land and community. Biochar offers a natural, sustainable solution to help you achieve both.
Why Keeping Nutrients in Place Matters
Nitrogen and phosphorus are essential for strong crop yields, but when they leave the field, they can cause problems:
Algae Growth: Excess nutrients contribute to algae blooms in ponds, streams, and drainage systems.
Murky Water: This leads to water quality issues and regulatory concerns.
Soil Fertility Loss: Essential nutrients for optimal crop performance are required to artificially apply at high costs to the landowner.
Traditional filtration systems are expensive and require ongoing maintenance. That's where biochar steps in.
How Biochar Helps Keep Nutrients in Place
Biochar is a highly porous, carbon-rich material that acts like a natural filter, helping to retain nutrients in the soil instead of letting them wash away. By integrating biochar into your water and nutrient management strategy, you can:
Improve Nutrient Retention: Keeps nitrogen and phosphorus in your fields, reducing runoff and boosting soil fertility.
Minimize Algae Growth: Prevents excessive nutrients from fueling unwanted algae in ponds and waterways.
Enhance Water Clarity: Reduces sediment and contaminants, improving drainage systems and farm ponds.
Support Soil Health: Encourages beneficial microbial activity that enhances essential nutrient cycling.
Sustainable & Cost-Effective: Made from renewable materials, biochar lasts longer than other filtration methods and requires minimal upkeep.
How Biochar Works
Unlike synthetic filters or chemical treatments, biochar provides a natural, long-lasting solution for nutrient management. Here's how it works:
Nutrient Collection: Its porous structure acts like a sponge, trapping nitrogen and phosphorus before they leach into waterways.
Microbial Support: Provides an ideal environment for beneficial microbes, which help to cycle nutrients more efficiently.
Versatile Application: Allows for use in farm drainage systems, pond treatments, and wastewater systems.
Who Benefits from Biochar?
Biochar is a versatile solution that works for a variety of industries and applications:
Farmers & Growers – Improve nutrient retention, reduce runoff, and build healthier soil.
Livestock Operations – Manage manure nutrients effectively while protecting nearby water sources.
Pond & Lake Owners – Keep water clean and prevent excessive algae growth naturally.
Municipal & Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facilities – Dramatically reduce costs of filtration and meet regulation mandates much quicker.
Why Choose Show Me The Carbon?
At Show Me The Carbon, we specialize in custom biochar solutions designed for Iowa farmers, landowners, and businesses. Whether you need a small-scale fix or a large-scale system, we're committed to helping you achieve:
Cleaner Water: Reduce algae blooms and improve water quality in ponds, streams, and drainage systems.
Healthier Soil: Retain nutrients in your fields to boost crop yields and soil fertility.
Smarter Farming: Use sustainable, low-maintenance solutions that save money and resources.
Take Action Today – Protect Your Water and Soil!
If you're ready to take control of your water quality and soil health, we're here to help! Whether you need a farm drainage solution, pond treatment, or a large-scale wastewater system, biochar is a proven, long-term option.
📧 Email us: support@showmethecarbon.com
🌍 Learn more: Algae & Moss Removal in Southwest Iowa
💬 Follow us on Facebook: Show Me The Carbon
Cleaner Water. Healthier Soil. Smarter Farming.
Let's Make It Happen Together!