News

Farmers Union seeks additions to high-cap well bill

 

A Wisconsin farm organization wants additional language added to the state’s proposed high capacity well legislation.

Wisconsin Farmers Union Governmental Relations Director Kara O’Conner tells Brownfield their members support additional water oversight. “We saw support for regular review of high-capacity well permits and allowing farmers to be able to repair, replace, or transfer a high-capacity well permit provided there was some sort of ongoing and comprehensive review of all permits to ensure availability of water.”

Two bills went through the Legislature last session, but neither made it to the Governor’s desk. Wisconsin Senator Rick Gudex’s bill is being re-introduced.

Current law requires Department of Natural Resources approval to replace existing wells.  The Gudex bill would allow repairs or replacement within the same capacity limits as the old well without DNR approval but does not call for regular permit reviews.