Water Quality

WGF analyses concerning water quality standards, methods of evaluating water quality, and regulation to protect water quality in Wisconsin’s lakes, rivers, and streams. Also see the Agriculture category for analyses of nonpoint sources of pollutants. This work is developed by WGF’s Water Resources and Environmental Rules Work Group.

Reflections on 50 Years of the Clean Water Act

Fifty years ago, the Clean Water Act of 1972 (CWA) was passed – a landmark decision to protect the safety, quality, and integrity of water in the United States. The Clean Water Act defined the lives and careers of many WGF members and Wisconsin residents, many of whom played vital roles in implementing the CWA standards and cleaning up Wisconsin waterways. We asked a few of our members to share their perspectives on the CWA, and how it changed the course of their careers in water resources.  

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The Cost of Clean Water

The following is a reflection written by Bruce Neeb, a Wisconsin’s Green Fire member and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources retiree who served 27 years with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Information/Education (I&E) and Grants and Loans programs. During his time at WDNR in Eau Claire, Bruce oversaw WDNR West Central Region grant, loan, …

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WGF and Partners Submit Joint Statement on Flambeau Mine Closure

Ariel view of the Flambeau Mine in Lady Smith when it was in operation.

On Friday, July 1st Wisconsin’s Green Fire, River Alliance of Wisconsin, and Sierra Club – WI Chapter submitted a joint statement on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ (WDNR) proposed completion of a portion of the Flambeau mine site south of Ladysmith, WI. The statement outlines …

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Wisconsin’s Green Fire Thanks Governor Evers for Protecting Public Trust Doctrine

Rhinelander, WI – Wisconsin’s Green Fire thanks Governor Tony Evers for vetoing legislation that would allow private development on the beds of lakes and rivers without proper consideration of the public’s ownership and rights in Wisconsin’s waters. Wisconsin’s Public Trust Doctrine, which is embodied in our State Constitution, holds those lakebeds and riverbeds in trust …

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Wisconsin’s Green Fire Attends Meetings Across the State

In early April, Wisconsin’s Green Fire staff and members attended events across Wisconsin to share the important work WGF has spearheaded for Wisconsin conservation. The events included the Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention in Stevens Point, the Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers “Comeback Conference” in Wausau, and a meeting with the Association of Retired Conservationists …

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WGF Comments on Enbridge Line 5 Re-Route draft Environmental Impact Statement

Timber mat and construction equipment

WGF 2022 Comments on Draft Environmental Impact Statement

In December 2021, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) released the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Enbridge Line 5 crude oil pipeline re-route in northern Wisconsin. Wisconsin’s Green Fire testified at the public hearing on February 2, 2022 and submitted Read More >

WGF Co-Sponsors Public Rights in Milwaukee’s Fresh Coast Webinar

Wisconsin’s Green Fire co-sponsored a webinar on January 19th with the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Center for Water Policy and the State Bar of Wisconsin, featuring six expert panelists who offered diverse perspectives on the public trust doctrine and how it influences Milwaukee’s Fresh Coast. Often overlooked, much of the city’s coastline and riverfronts …

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WGF and Partners Submit Letter to CEQ on Enbridge Line 5 Environmental Impact Review

Timber mat and construction equipment

The White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) works to ensure consistent application of federal administration environmental policies and priorities across federal agencies. In its hiring announcement for the current chair of the CEQ, Brenda Mallory, the Biden Administration cited climate change and environmental justice (EJ) as two top priorities for the …

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