Water Use and Conservation Rules Proposed

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) has proposed rules regarding Water Use Fees, Water Use Registration and Reporting, and Water Use Conservation and Efficiency. These rules are proposed as part of the State’s response to the Great Lakes Compact.

The first rule proposes water fees in a new chapter NR 850, and could affect surface water supply systems with the capacity to withdraw 100,000 gallons per day (“GPD”) or more. The second rule contains new registration and reporting requirements. Proposed chapter NR 856 would require any system with the capacity to withdraw more than 100,000 GPD to register the withdrawal within six months of the rules effective date. Facilities would also be required to determine the monthly volume of water withdrawn, and to file annual reports with DNR.

The third proposed rule addresses water conservation and use efficiency measures. Draft chapter NR 852 includes different conservation requirements applicable to three tiers of new or increased withdrawals.

The draft rules will be available for public comment until July 7, 2010. WDNR also expects to have additional related rules available for public comment in Fall 2010.

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