Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

DNR to Implement Mandatory CWD Sampling and In-Person Registration for Six Townships in West Central Wisconsin During Nine-Day Gun Deer Season

CWD is a contagious neurological disease of deer, elk and moose that is caused by an abnormal protein called a prion.

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order #40 Relating to PFAS in Wisconsin

Executive Order #40 directs the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to take additional steps to address PFAS contamination.

Wisconsin Women in Government Announces 2019-2020 Board of Directors and Leadership Team

Gov. Evers Requests Federal Disaster Aid for July’s Severe Storms

"Damage assessments by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) verified more than $19.5 million in eligible damages."

DNR hosts hearing to discuss wetland and water permits related to water diversion project

The hearing will also cover the DNR's Environmental Impact Statement on the overall diversion project.

City of Waukesha proposed water diversion public hearing

Waukesha is applying for wetland and waterway permits to construct a water supply system to divert water from Lake Michigan and a return system.

DNR taking more steps to protect Wisconsin drinking water

The DNR will ask 125 municipal wastewater treatment facilities to begin sampling and analyzing water flowing in and out of the facilities for PFAS compounds.

DNR Secretary Appoints Beth Bier To Deputy Secretary

Beth began her career at the DNR in 2001 in the Secretary's Office.

Gov. Evers Appoints William H. Smith to Natural Resources Board

DNR Secretary announces leadership change

Tim Cooke, current deputy division administrator, will assume the administrator role.

A breath of fresh air: DNR celebrates Clean Air Month as Wisconsin’s air quality continues to improve

Clean Air Month is held annually each May.

Supervisor Logsdon Opposes Increased Mercury Pollution in Wisconsin Waterways

"I'm opposed to WE Energies request for a variance to dump more than three times the safe limit of mercury into our water..."

Friends of Hank Aaron State Trail to Unveil Two Sculptures on May 4

Sculptures a powerful reminder of history and the workers of the Milwaukee Road

Drug Take Back Day is April 27

"Through proper disposal, we can prevent prescription drugs from being diverted—and help prevent addiction."

Reps. Kind, Sensenbrenner Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Manage and Prevent the Spread of Chronic Wasting Disease in Wisconsin

The Chronic Wasting Disease Management Act will support state and tribal efforts to develop and implement management strategies and support research regarding the causes of chronic wasting disease.

Over 30 Organizations Call on DNR to Stop We Energies’ Mercury Variance

Momentum to Oppose Water Permit As Written is Growing

DNR Secretary Cole announces additional appointments to leadership team

Todd Ambs has been named DNR Assistant Deputy Secretary.

DSPS Secretary-Designee Crim Announces Leadership Team Appointments

Crim said she would announce additional appointments as they are made.

DNR Secretary Cole makes first appointments to leadership team

Cole said he would announce additional appointments as they are made.

WisDOT announces more than $7 million in harbor grants

Funds cover safety, construction and dredging projects

Governor-elect Tony Evers and Lt. Governor-elect Mandela Barnes Announce Agriculture, Energy, and Natural Resources Policy Advisory Council

"We’re going to bring science back to decision-making in Wisconsin."

Governor Walker Requests Federal Disaster Aid for 18 Wisconsin Counties Following Severe Storms and Flooding in August and September

"It is essential that the federal government provide needed assistance."

Sturgeon Fest set for Sept. 29 at Lakeshore State Park in Milwaukee

The family-oriented event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and features the opportunity for participants to sponsor and hand release one of the young sturgeon into the Milwaukee Harbor.

County Exploring Options to Relocate South Shore Beach

For years, South Shore Beach has been plagued by water quality problems that lead to frequent beach closures.

Snapshot Day on August 18th is a Statewide Water Monitoring Event

Volunteers needed to search for invasive species!

Governor Walker Administration Awards More Than $26 Million for Lead Service Line Replacement in 42 Wisconsin Communities

"The health and well-being of our citizens is a top priority."

Storm Update – June 18 & 19, 2018

This is the first tunnel related overflow since September of 2016.

Diversion of Great Lakes Water for Foxconn Challenged

Integrity of the Great Lakes Compact at Risk

2017 Milwaukee Water Works Consumer Confidence Report

The report provides evidence that Milwaukee’s drinking water quality is clean and safe and meets all U.S. EPA and Wisconsin DNR regulations.

Statement on legal win for wetlands

"This is a significant victory for the people of Wisconsin, our pristine wetlands, and the integrity of our environmental laws."

Racine Diversion Request Raises Serious Questions; Compact Coalition Urges Regional Review

The purpose of the diversion is to provide Great Lakes water to Foxconn Technology Group, a private, large multinational electronics manufacturer, for its first U.S. manufacturing plant.

Humboldt Park Lagoon Restoration Nets Sweet Water Funding

HPF cleared cattails and other invasive plants from two sections of shoreline in autumn 2016 and 2017.

DNR asks public for input on draft Wisconsin River Basin Total Maximum Daily Load study to improve water quality

Once finalized, the TMDL plan is sent to EPA for their review and approval.

Wisconsin State Director of Strategic Economic Initiatives, Matthew Moroney to speak on the FOXCONN Development at AGC Corporate Dinner

The FOXCONN development project is expected to be the largest single economic development project in Wisconsin history.

New Zealand Mudsnails Invading Southern Wisconsin, Anglers are Likely Culprit

It is essential that wading anglers and other stream users prevent the spread of mudsnails and other invasive species.

Governor Walker Announces New Water Technology Partnerships

The Water Council signs two agreements to increase collaboration during trade mission

$2.3 Million in Grants for Estabrook Dam Removal

NEW Analysis Shows Project Would Take 50+ Homes Out of Floodplain

Governor Walker Announces DNR Forestry Headquarters Move to Rhinelander

The Chief State Forester will move to the DNR-owned facility north of Highway 29 by January 1, 2018.

League of Women Voters Presents a Public Program on Wisconsin’s Changing Environmental Laws & Regulations on November 11

This free public program will be held at the Shorewood Village Center, 3920 N. Murray Ave.

Sturgeon Fest set for Sept. 30 at Lakeshore Park in Milwaukee

The festival is free for all ages; a donation of $10 is appreciated for sponsoring a sturgeon.

Matt Moroney Named Strategic Economic Initiatives Director

Wisconn Valley Special Session bill creates new project position at DOA focusing on economic development

In Multi-Agency Effort, Wisconsin Sends Resources to Hurricane Harvey

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims as they recover from this devastating storm."

Governor Walker Statement on DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp

"Cathy is a strong, trusted reformer who will serve the country well at the EPA."

Open house set to initiate amendment process to Kohler-Andrae State Park Master Plan

Kohler is proposing to construct a new roadway with a roundabout that would provide access to the park and to the golf course.

Governor Walker Signs 20 Bills Into Law

Acts 37 - 56

Governor Walker Declares a State of Emergency for 17 Wisconsin Counties

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the flooding."

Governor Walker Surveys Flood Damage, Declares State of Emergency

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the flooding.”

2016 Milwaukee Water Works Consumer Confidence Report

Milwaukee water complies with all state and federal drinking water standards.

Clean Air Month encourages citizens to Be Air Aware

The agency's December 2016 Wisconsin Air Quality Trends Report [PDF] again showed positive trends toward cleaner air.

SB 76 brings Grassroots groups together in defense of the waters of Wisconsin

Citizens and grassroots groups from around the state are calling for their elected officials to vote ‘no’ on SB 76

Scientists form new group to address threats to Wisconsin’s natural resources

Wisconsin’s Green Fire: Voices for Conservation has been formed in response to recent developments at the state and national level that threaten science-based practices and long-term vision in natural resources management.

Waukesha Water Statement

City Response to Eight Great Lakes Governors’ Ruling on Cities Initiative Appeal

GOP Demolishes Over 150 Years of Wisconsin Heritage

"Wisconsin Republicans continue to play pay-off politics with our water..."

Community Meeting Set to Discuss Milwaukee River Floodplain Soil and Sediment Sample Results

The public meeting will be held April 18 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Gordon Park Pavilion.

City to Acquire Green Space on Conway Street in Bay View

Land Provides a Buffer between Port and a Residential Neighborhood

Governor Walker Announces Three Communities Will Receive Financial Assistance to Replace Lead Service Lines

For state Fiscal Year 2017, DNR has allocated $14.5 million for disadvantaged municipalities to help remove old lead service lines.

Eric Lobner named Director of DNR’s Wildlife Management program

Lobner was born and raised in central Wisconsin and comes from a family where hunting, fishing and wildlife appreciation are second nature.

Governor Walker approves $5 million in harbor grants

Funds cover safety, construction and dredging projects

Milwaukee River Basin Receives Below Average Grade for a Fourth Year in a Row

Milwaukee Riverkeeper Works to Connect Science, Policy and Community to Raise the Grade

Museum of Wisconsin Art’s Bloomin’ Holidaze Back for a Fourth Year

Friday and Saturday, November 11 and 12, 2016

Clean Wisconsin challenges high capacity well permits

Constitution requires DNR to consider impacts on lakes, rivers, and streams

Governor Walker Requests Federal Disaster Aid for Western Wisconsin Due to September Flooding

Governor Scott Walker today sent a letter to President Barack Obama requesting a federal disaster declaration for 12 western Wisconsin counties after torrential rains and flash floods last month caused more than $11 million in damage.

Environmental Groups Support Milwaukee County’s Decision to Remove the Estabrook Dam

Despite the public outcry the Board of Supervisors have never held a straight up and down vote on repairing or removing the dam.

Marquette Law School to host conference on public policy and American drinking water

This conference will take an interdisciplinary approach to exploring the water-related legal, scientific, engineering and environmental issues that fill today’s news and touch all of our lives.

Great Lakes Leaders Approve Waukesha Water Diversion

Wisconsin environmental groups' concerns remain; modified diversion plan will require vigilance

Groups Ask Wisconsin to Clarify its Authority to Regulate a Waukesha Diversion

An opinion by the Wisconsin Attorney General casts doubt on the state’s authority to manage, regulate, and enforce conditions the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Water Resources Compact Council may require when approving a diversion.

Milwaukee Riverkeeper challenges Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources on Estabrook Dam repair

DNR's Environmental Impact Statement insufficient to evaluate impacts of repairing the Estabrook Dam

MKE Plays ready to transform Marcus DeBack Playground

Friday news event will include unveiling of major improvements at playground – one of six playground upgrades planned for Milwaukee during 2016

Milwaukee County Gets Greener: Brewers Foundation Donates Trees to Milwaukee County Parks

The Parks Department will receive 70 trees representing seven species—catalpa, sugar maple, swamp white oak, Kentucky coffee tree, hackberry, Japanese tree lilac, and honeylocust.

Wisconsin Women in Government Announces 2016 Board of Directors and Leadership Team

Wisconsin Women in Government was founded in 1987 to celebrate and support the talented women who choose a career in government service.

Milwaukee Riverkeeper files third lawsuit against Milwaukee County in continued effort to remove Estabrook Dam

Lawsuit challenges County's appropriation of public funds for a private purpose

Governor Scott Walker Signs Assembly Bill 422 Into Law at Wild Rivers Interpretive Center

The provides $27,000 of funding from the Forestry Account of the Conservation Fund to the Florence Wild Rivers Interpretive Center in Fiscal Year 2016 and Fiscal Year 2017.

Environmental Groups Call on EPA for Immediate Action in Kewaunee County

After 18 months of inaction, county residents deserve clean, safe drinking water

New Information Confirms Great Lakes Water Unnecessary for Waukesha

Updated report reaffirms sustainable alternative to Great Lakes water

Milwaukee Riverkeeper launches new phase in efforts to remove the Estabrook Dam

New efforts encourage Milwaukee County residents to contact the County Board; includes radio and digital advertising push

Waukesha water diversion application will set precedent for adherence to Great Lakes Compact

Eight Great Lakes governors and two Canadian premiers ask Great Lakes citizens to chime in

First Request to Divert Great Lakes Water Heads to Regional Governors and Premiers

Any state may veto the diversion application

Waukesha Diversion Application to Move On to Regional Review

DNR says Waukesha's application approvable despite requests from across the Great Lakes region to deny it

Oak Leaf Trail Extension Bike-Chain-Cutting Ceremony Celebrates Milwaukee Lakefront to Ozaukee Interurban Trail Connection

Bridges along the corridor were instrumental in providing unimpeded access over I-43, Port Washington Road, Silver Spring Drive, the Milwaukee River Parkway, and the Milwaukee River.

Public Opposed to Waukesha’s Lake Michigan Diversion

96% of Written Comments in Opposition to Waukesha’s Proposal

John Deere Horicon Works Hosts Wisconsin Officials for Groundbreaking

New facility will consolidate operations, create 80 new jobs

Legal and Technical Experts Tell DNR Waukesha’s Application Does Not Comply with Great Lakes Compact

Public largely opposed to application at all three public hearings

DNR Public Hearings on Waukesha Water Diversion

The DNR will hold three public hearings next week to gather public input on the City of Waukesha’s application to take water from Lake Michigan.

Governor Scott Walker Statement on EPA’s Final Rule

"Yet again, President Obama is taking unilateral action and overstepping the limits of his authority to pursue a political agenda."

Lake Michigan Diversion Application Review Released by Wisconsin DNR

Precedent-setting application will test the strength of the Great Lakes Compact

Governor Scott Walker Announces Several Appointments

Governor Scott Walker announced several appointments today, including Andrew “Drew” Peterson and Michael M. Grebe to the University of Wisconsin (UW) System Board of Regents; Julie Anderson and Dr. Frederick Prehn to the Natural Resources Board

Earth Day or April Fools Day?

"The wealth of the nation is its air, water, soil, forests, minerals, rivers, lakes, oceans, scenic beauty, wildlife habitats and biodiversity… that’s all there is."

On Earth Day, Representative Lisa Subeck Proudly Stands Up for Wisconsin’s Natural Resources

Republican budget would do serious harm to our state’s outdoor heritage

MMSD Reports First Combined Sewer Overflow of 2015

Storm Update – April 8 & 9, 2015

Governor Scott Walker Announces Administration Staff Change

Governor Scott Walker announced Kurt Thiede as the new Deputy Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Budget Reaction: Stewardship Program Frozen; More Politics Added to the DNR

Conservationists ask legislature to Improve governor’s budget.

Flip Flop Applesauce

Dysfunction Around the Estabrook Dam Continues at Milwaukee County as Finance Committee Votes to Switch County Policy on Dam. Again.

Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters Calls on DNR Secretary Stepp to Reject Smart Sand Green Tier Application

Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters is calling on Secretary Cathy Stepp to reject the application for Green Tier status by Smart Sand, Inc.

Conservation Voters Call on DNR to Deny Frac Sand Greenwashing

Urges DNR to Reject Smart Sand Green Tier Application

City of Milwaukee Hosts Compost Bin and Rain Barrel Sale – June 7th

The City of Milwaukee will host a one-day-only, first-come first-served backyard compost bin and rain barrel sale on Saturday, June 7th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Washington Park parking lot at N. 40th St. and W. Galena St.

Mayor Tom Barrett’s Statement on Today’s Public Service Commission Ruling

We’re not surprised that the Public Service Commission continues to politicize a local public works improvement project.

Nearly $39 million in federal transportation awards announced

Funds will help improve air quality in southeastern Wisconsin

Supervisor Jursik Criticizes Shoreline Bill

Jursik Says Shoreline Bill Washes Out Trustee Duty to Protect Public Access

Waukesha’s Revised Water Diversion Proposal Still Fails to Meet Great Lakes Compact

The City of Waukesha’s revised plan to divert an average of 10.1 million gallons of water daily from Lake Michigan falls short of the protective standards set by the Great Lakes Compact.

Coalition Contends Waukesha Diversion Proposal Falls Short of Meeting Great Lakes Compact

A coalition of Wisconsin conservation and environmental organizations, contends that the City of Waukesha’s plan to divert an average of 10.1 million gallons daily from Lake Michigan does not meet the standards of the Compact