BURCHINAL, Iowa (AP) - Authorities are investigating the dumping of pig bones near Burchinal (BUHRCH-in-uhl) in northern Iowa.

Officials with the Cerro Gordo County Health Department say 12 bags of pig parts were dumped someone in the past couple of weeks.

Officials say it's not believed there is any significant health or environmental risk and that the focus of the investigation is on how the bones got there.

The bones are about a half mile from the nearest residence.

Officials say it's doubtful that a farmer dumped the bones because they now how to properly dispose of them, including sending to a rendering plant, burial and composting.