Wisconsin's DNR Secretary Looking to Create Specific Local Plans for Improving Groundwater Quality Around the State
Thursday, January 23rd, 2020 -- 10:32 AM
(WRN) -Wisconsin’s new Department of Natural Resources Secretary says the agency will be working to establish specific local plans for improving groundwater quality around the state.Preston Cole says the DNR will be bringing science and researchers together with farm industry representatives and others, and his doors are open to all stakeholders.
"I'm glad to see my brothers and sisters in agricultural community come en masse to voice their concerns, but also be willing to be part of the solutions and I believe that's where we're going to get something done for clean water in the state of Wisconsin."
Cole says a farmer pointed out different state agencies oversee wells, private septic systems, manure management, municipal waste, and public health issues while pursuing the same goal of clean water.
"I would ask myself and my staff and the staff of other agencies 'How can we coordinate better?' and I think that was an excellent suggestion."
The comments came as part of a series of discussion on water quality and large scale farming operation. Cole says the DNR now has additional staff to help oversee large farming operations, or CAFO’s. He says the last state budget allowed the DNR to hire four of the eight requested enforcement positions.
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