DNR Seeks Public Input On Water Quality Standards

MADISON, Wis. – The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is beginning a public input process to determine what issues it will work on over the next three years to protect water quality in lakes, streams and rivers. This process is called the Triennial Standards Review and is required by the Clean Water Act. Topics that will be evaluated in the 2021-2023 review include policies, rules and guidance related to designated uses, water quality criteria, antidegradation and variances. This review helps the DNR focus efforts to best protect the health of Wisconsin's lakes, rivers and streams.

The review consists of several steps. First, the DNR asks for topics related to water quality standards from the public and external partners. This step is starting today. The DNR then asks the public, partners and internal staff to rank these topics and holds a public webinar to provide additional information on the topics under consideration. That step is conducted using an online survey, which is expected to be available later this fall. The DNR then prioritizes the topics based on input from the survey and prepares a final prioritized list of items to work on over the next three years. The prioritized list is expected to be completed this winter. In the last step, work begins on priority topics. This work may take several years.

Submit Topic Suggestions For The 2021-2023 Triennial Standards Review

If you have suggestions for revisions or improvements to the DNR's policies, rules and guidance related to designated uses, water quality criteria, antidegradation and variances, please complete the topic suggestion form on the DNR's website. The deadline to submit topic suggestions is September 14. The public is encouraged to share this opportunity with others who may wish to submit a topic for consideration. The DNR appreciates all input on protecting Wisconsin's water quality.

For more information on the Triennial Standards Review process and past reviews, click here.