BERNER CHEESE CORP
Parent Company: BERNER FOOD & BEVERAGE INC
2034 E FACTORY RD, DAKOTA, Illinois 61018
Pollution Risk
18Based on 1 TRI facility in zip code 61018
Water Quality
8No violation data available
Air Quality
55County-level EPA AQS data for STEPHENSON
Facility Information
Should You Be Concerned About BERNER CHEESE CORP?
BERNER CHEESE CORPis registered in the EPA's Toxic Release Inventory (TRI). This means the facility reports handling, releasing, or transferring toxic chemicals as part of its operations. The area's environmental safety score is just 26/100 — a concerning level that warrants attention from residents, particularly families with young children or individuals with respiratory conditions.
Drinking water quality is a concern in zip code 61018, scoring only 8/100. Consider testing your home water supply or using a certified filtration system.
What you can do: Check your home's water quality with an annual test kit, monitor local air quality alerts, and review the full Illinois pollution report for broader context. BERNER FOOD & BEVERAGE INC operates this facility — check if they have a public environmental responsibility report.
Health Considerations for Residents Near BERNER CHEESE CORP
Living near a Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) facility in DAKOTA, Illinois (61018) means potential exposure to industrial pollutants through air, water, and soil. While not every facility creates immediate health risks, long-term proximity warrants awareness and proactive steps.
Water Testing
Given the water quality score of 8/100 for zip code 61018, we recommend annual water testing for heavy metals, VOCs, and industrial contaminants — especially if you use well water. Testing kits are available through your county health department or certified labs.
Air Quality Monitoring
Monitor daily AQI (Air Quality Index) at airnow.gov, particularly on hot, stagnant days when ground-level pollutants concentrate. If you notice unusual odors or visible emissions from BERNER CHEESE CORP, report them to Illinois's environmental agency.
When to Consult a Doctor
Speak with your physician if you experience persistent respiratory symptoms (chronic cough, wheezing, shortness of breath), unexplained headaches, skin irritation, or unusual fatigue — particularly if these worsen when you're at home. Mention your proximity to a TRI facility so they can order appropriate screening. Vulnerable populations — children, elderly, pregnant women, and those with asthma — should be especially vigilant.
Explore More
Data sources: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI), EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS), EPA Air Quality System (AQS). Facility ID: 61018BRNRC2034C. Last updated: August 2026.