For Antigo Times

MADISON, Wis. – Proposed rule revisions to align state regulations with federal requirements for managing the state’s water resources were adopted by the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board Wednesday, January 27.

The board approved two rule packages that modify the Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit program and help address differences outlined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The federal agency identified 75 potential issues with Wisconsin’s regulatory authority. The Department of Natural Resources previously resolved 30 issues through rulemaking or other means and today’s board-approved changes address 21 additional issues, with the remaining 24 issues to be addressed through additional administrative rule changes and other efforts.

“Our administration has diligently worked to address these issues, and we’re working hard to resolve the rest,” said DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp. “With the board’s approval and continued support, we believe that these rule packages will help maintain and enhance our efforts to protect and restore Wisconsin’s vital water resources.”

Issues addressed in the rule updates include establishing new regulations to cover pollutant discharges when pollutants are present in intake water and methods to calculate effluent limits.

To learn more, visit DNR.wi.gov and search “WPDES permits.”