DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp
An environmental group wants the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to assert authority in regulating high-capacity wells. Friends of the Central Sands president Bill Clarke argues that court decisions mean that the agency does have that authority – despite a recent opinion to the contrary from Attorney General Brad Schimel.
“The DNR has the tools in its toolbelt. We’re simply asking that they in fact use them,” Clarke said.
Clarke has written to DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp, urging the DNR to reject the attorney general’s opinion, and continue its existing approach to permitting high capacity wells.
“This is not about one or two lakes drying up, this really does effect the entire resource in the region,” Clarke said.
Clarke said it’s the DNR’s obligation to consider scientific evidence regarding cumulative effects of high-capacity wells on surface waters when deciding to permit additional wells.
Stepp’s office did not respond to a request for comment.