DRAFT Groundwater Management Plan
Section 5 Management Techniques and Options
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The 1983 Groundwater Protection Act created Chapter 160, Wis. Stats., which serves as the backbone of Wisconsin's groundwater protection program. Chapter 160 provides a multi-agency comprehensive regulatory approach, using two-tiered numerical standards, based on the premise that all groundwater aquifers in Wisconsin are entitled to equal protection. Each State regulatory agency must promulgate rules to assure that the groundwater standards are met and to require appropriate responses when the standards are not met.
The State regulatory agencies are the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) (solid and hazardous waste, industrial and municipal wastewater, spills, wetlands and water supply); the Department of Commerce (private sewage systems, petroleum product storage tanks); the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) (pesticide use and storage, and fertilizer storage); and the Department of Transportation (DOT) (salt storage). In addition, Chapter 160 directs the Department of Health and Family Services (DHFS) to recommend health-based enforcement standards for substances found in groundwater, and specifies the protocol for developing the recommended standards.
The purpose of this chapter is to describe groundwater management programs and implementation of ch. 160, Wis. Stats., by the individual State agencies in FY 03. In addition, the University of Wisconsin System, UW Extension and the Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS) carry out numerous educational, research, monitoring, and outreach activities related to groundwater protection.
Department Of Natural Resources
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has statutory authority as the central unit of State government to protect, maintain, and improve the quality and management of the waters of the State, ground and surface, public and private (s. 281.11 Wis. Stats.). The DNR establishes groundwater quality standards under authority of ch. 160, Wis. Stats, and has specific groundwater-related regulatory programs, which are the responsibility of four Bureaus:
1. Drinking Water and Groundwater – Regulates public water systems, private drinking water supply wells, well abandonment, and high capacity wells. The Bureau also educates well drillers, pump installers, and water system operators, and publishes materials to educate well owners. The Bureau's Groundwater Section coordinates groundwater activities of the DNR, as well as other State agencies. In particular, the Groundwater Section is responsible for adoption and implementation of groundwater standards contained in ch. NR 140, Wis. Adm. Code.
2. Waste Management - Regulates and monitors groundwater at proposed, active, and inactive solid waste facilities and landfills. The Bureau reviews investigations of groundwater contamination and implementation of remedial actions at active solid waste facilities and landfills. The Bureau also maintains a Groundwater and Environmental Monitoring System (GEMS) database of groundwater quality data from over 600 solid waste facilities and landfills to evaluate whether sites are impacting groundwater quality.
3. Remediation and Redevelopment - Oversees responses at spills of hazardous substances and hazardous waste sites, brownfields, leaking underground storage tanks, closed wastewater and solid waste facilities, and sediment cleanups, including associated groundwater contamination.
4. Watershed Management - Regulates the discharge of municipal and industrial wastewater and land treatment of biosolids, issues permits for discharges from clean-up sites regulated by the Bureau for Remediation and Redevelopment, and has primary responsibility for regulating stormwater and agricultural runoff and waste from large animal feeding operations.
Groundwater standards. Chapter 160, Wis. Stats., requires the DNR to develop numerical groundwater quality enforcement standards and preventive action limits, for substances detected in, or having a reasonable probability of entering, the groundwater resources of the State. Chapter NR 140, Wis. Adm. Code, establishes these standards and a framework for their implementation, and currently contains groundwater quality standards for 122 substances of public health concern, 8 substances of public welfare concern, and 15 indicator parameter substances in NR 140.
Public hearings have been held on proposed amendments to NR 140 that revise existing groundwater quality standards for butylate, dacthal and naphthalene, and establish new NR 140 groundwater quality standards for molybdenum and alachlor ESA (ethane sulfonic acid), a breakdown product of the pesticide alachlor. These revisions to NR 140 are currently "on hold" pending submittal of results of a recently completed alachlor ESA toxicological study by Monsanto, the manufacturer of alachlor.
A table listing NR 140 regulatory standards and advisory level groundwater quality standards, NR 809 State drinking water standards, and health advisory levels (HALs) for substances in water, provides a useful source of information about the safety of drinking water and groundwater contamination. It is available on the Internet at: http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/dwg/health/hal.htm. Links in this table allow users to obtain additional toxicological and health related information on many of the substances listed.
· Groundwater monitoring and research. DNR continues to administer funds for management practice monitoring projects under Wisconsin's Groundwater Research and Monitoring Program. More details can be found at http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/dwg/gw/research.htm. Final reports and almost 100 research summaries are available at http://www.wri.wisc.edu/wgrmp/wgrmp.htm.
Groundwater monitoring well requirements, as specified under NR 141, are administered by Groundwater staff. Activities include consultation on well construction, random inspections of environmental drilling operations, and review of new technologies and their application.
Groundwater staff maintains the Groundwater Sampling Desk Reference and Field Manual, which provide detailed instructions on how to collect groundwater samples and make accurate monitoring measurements. These are available at http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/dwg/gw/sample.htm.
Groundwater data management. Groundwater data from the consolidated Groundwater Retrieval Network (GRN) system is available at http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/dwg/. GRN accesses groundwater data from three program database systems in the Bureaus of Waste Management, and Drinking Water and Groundwater, including information on over 293,500 wells. These wells represent public and private water supply wells, piezometers, monitoring wells, non-potable wells, and groundwater extraction wells. Data from the Bureau of Watershed Management's database system will be added in the near future to include data from monitoring wells associated with wastewater discharge permits.
Software related to well construction reports at http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/dwg/gw/software.htm, allows users to enter and search data, print paper copies, and export and import records. Forms available include:
· Monitoring Well Construction Form 4400-113A
· Monitoring Well Development Form 4400-113B
· Well/Drillhole/Borehole Abandonment Form 3300-5B
· Soil Boring Log Information Form 4400-122 and 122A
· Groundwater Monitoring Well Information Form 4400-89
· Groundwater Monitoring Inventory Form 3300-67
· First Water Quality Report Form (3300-77)
· Drinking Water Well Construction Report Form (3300-77A)
Wellhead protection. The DNR is the lead State agency for developing and implementing the Wisconsin Wellhead Protection (WHP) Plan to achieve groundwater pollution prevention in public water supply wellhead areas. A WHP plan must be developed for any new municipal water supply well constructed since May 1, 1992. The plan must be approved by the DNR's Public Water Systems Section. A WHP Plan is voluntary for any public water supply well approved prior to May 1, 1992.
The DNR continues a Statewide public information effort aimed at encouraging water utilities to protect their water supplies from potential sources of contamination through wellhead protection planning, including:
· Teacher training - worked with the Central Wisconsin Groundwater Center (CWGC) and the Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS) to sponsor groundwater workshops training teachers in the use of groundwater sand tank models, and giving the models to teachers to take back to their schools along with a variety of educational materials. The intent is to provide information for teachers to educate students –and their parents – to protect groundwater in their own communities.
· Working with local communities on WHP planning - assist communities with WHP planning, and work with the Wisconsin Rural Water Association in providing assistance. The DNR makes publications available to assist communities in their wellhead protection efforts.
·
Upgrading the WHP web pages
at
http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/dwg/gw/whp.htm
as new information becomes available, including an annotated bibliography and
list of available publications, a list of contacts for more information, and
sample WHP ordinances.
· Promoting the Groundwater Guardian Program - encourage local governments to become Groundwater Guardian communities and work with existing Groundwater Guardian communities.
· Source Water Assessment Program - funding regional groundwater modeling projects in 24 counties providing advanced WHP Area delineations of the 5, 50 and 100-year capture zones for each of the municipal wells in these areas. When completed, the program will have: 1) delineated source water protection areas for all public water systems in the State; 2) conducted inventories of significant potential sources of contamination within those areas; 3) determined the susceptibility for each system; and 4) made the results of the assessments available to the public. Security concerns resulting from the 2001 terrorist attacks curtailed the program’s initial goal of making all aspects of the assessment available to the public.
The information on potential sources of contamination is being used with well construction, hydrologic, geologic, and other information to determine each system's susceptibility to contamination. The SWAP assessment form and mapping application are at the leading edge of DNR’s efforts in integrating spatial and tabular data toward the goal of public health protection. Source water assessments for Wisconsin’s 19 drinking water systems that use surface water are available on the Internet at http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/dwg/swap/index.htm.
Groundwater components of watershed basins - Groundwater Section staff work with basin teams to develop specific groundwater priorities based on GRN data and land cover information. State of the Basin reports provide baseline information on surface water, groundwater and land resources, and document environmental needs, and identify priorities related to groundwater for the nonpoint source program.
Runoff management rules for stormwater infiltration, with performance standards to ensure compliance with chapter NR 140, Wis. Adm. Code, were promulgated in October 2002. Guidance for developers, land use planners, and government agencies, regarding stormwater practices that will meet the performance standards while preserving groundwater quality, is under development.
Arsenic in groundwater - elevated levels of naturally occurring arsenic, in a portion of Outagamie, Shawano, Winnebago, and Brown Counties affects approximately one out of three private drinking water wells sampled. The Bureau is tracking current and new technologies for treating arsenic that may be possibilities for small water systems in Wisconsin. A web page (http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/dwg/arsenic/index.htm) has been developed to provide information and updated recommendations.
Underground Injection Control program. The purpose of the Underground Injection Control (UIC) program is to ensure that any aquifer that meets the definition of an underground source of drinking water (USDW) is protected from contamination that may result from the use of injection wells. All aquifers of the State are considered to be USDWs.
High capacity wells. The Department of Natural Resources is authorized under statute to regulate wells on each property where the combined capacity of all wells on the property, pumped or flowing, is greater than about 70 gallons per minute (100,000 gallons per day over a 30 day period). Such wells are defined as high capacity wells. When a high capacity well is anticipated to have an adverse impact on the quality or quantity of water available to a public utility well, the Department must deny approval or to limit operation of the high capacity well.
Groundwater quantity and water withdrawal issues were highlighted by the interest of a major water bottling company in locating a high capacity well near two spring sites. The Department is continuing to address the potential impacts of the proposed wells through the review and approval process, but has limited authority in regulating groundwater withdrawals that may affect surface water resources.
Drinking Water and Groundwater web site - The web site (http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/dwg/index.htm) for Drinking Water and Groundwater provides easy access to information for consumers, well drillers and pump installers, and water system owners and operators.
Bureau of Waste Management - regulates and monitors groundwater at proposed, active, and inactive solid waste facilities and landfills, and groundwater contamination investigations and implementation of remedial actions at active solid waste facilities and landfills. Some closed town, city, and village landfills may be impacting groundwater.
The Bureau for Remediation and Redevelopment (RR) is primarily responsible for implementing and aiding cleanups under the Spill Law, the Environmental Repair Law, federal programs (Superfund, Hazardous Waste Corrective Action, LUST, Brownfields), the Land Recycling Law and State Brownfield Initiatives, and at closed landfills. All cleanups are conducted according to WI Administrative Rules NR 700-750, Investigation and Remediation of Environmental Contamination, and NR 140, Groundwater Quality.
Cleanup of groundwater contamination. The Environmental Fund is used when contamination is significant, but private parties do not undertake the cleanup. Whenever feasible, the staff attempt to recover costs from responsible persons after the cleanups are undertaken.
Brownfields program. The RR program provides technical assistance, helps to clarify legal liability, and provides financial assistance to encourage local governments and private businesses to cleanup and redevelop brownfield properties. Brownfields are idle or underused industrial or commercial sites whose development is adversely affected by environmental contamination. Many brownfields have groundwater contamination. After an environmental investigation of the property, and cleanup of soil and groundwater contamination, the Department will provide a release from future liability for contamination on the property prior to issuance of the "Certificate of Completion".
The Site Assessment Grant (SAG) program funds the removal of aboveground and underground storage tanks and abandoned containers of hazardous substances, and environmental site investigations at contaminated properties, if the persons responsible for the contamination are unknown, cannot be located, or cannot pay for the activities. The Brownfields Green Space and Public Facilities Grant (ch. NR 173) helps local governments clean up brownfield sites that will have a long-term public benefit, including the preservation of green space, the development of recreational areas, or the use of a property by a local government. These grants can be used for remediation of soil and groundwater at a property.
Dry Cleaner Environmental Response Fund (DERF) Program - Fees paid by the dry cleaning industry provide program funding, through ch. NR 169, Wis. Adm. Code, for cleanup of soil and groundwater at sites contaminated by dry cleaning solvents.
Site closure rules for Petroleum Contaminated Sites (under PECFA). NR 746 and Comm 46 establish risk and closure criteria to determine whether petroleum contaminated sites can be closed using natural attenuation as a final remedy for groundwater contamination. Sites with contamination in low permeability (clay) materials can close after a site investigation, if all risk criteria are met and the groundwater contamination is stable or receding. For contamination in permeable materials, sites must meet all risk criteria and demonstrate, through monitoring, that groundwater contaminants are declining. Depending on the extent of soil contamination remaining at a contaminated site, a deed restriction may be required. NR 726 provides closure requirements for all other sites.
GIS Registry. This Internet (http://gomapout.dnr.state.wi.us/org/at/et/geo/gwur/index.htm) database is used with well construction requirements for private wells, and with setback distances for new municipal wells to replace the requirement to record groundwater use restrictions at the County Register of Deeds Office. Inclusion on the GIS Registry provides a means of notifying future owners or users of the property of the existence of soil and/or groundwater contamination. The Department works with Diggers' Hotline to make the GIS Registry information available to well drillers. The Bureau of Remediation and Redevelopment Tracking System (BRRTS) is available on the Internet at (http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/aw/rr/brrts/index.htm). These two linked databases make site specific information on open and closed remediation sites accessible to the public, particularly potential buyers and those wanting to install or replace a potable well on an affected property. Sites regulated by the Departments of Commerce and Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection are also included in the GIS Registry and BRRTS.
The Bureau of Watershed Management implements DNR’s Groundwater Standards Program primarily through the issuance of Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) permits to communities, industrial facilities, and large privately owned wastewater systems, which discharge treated domestic or industrial wastewater to groundwater through land treatment/disposal systems. These systems include spray irrigation, seepage cell, and subsurface absorption systems. WPDES permits issued to these facilities contain groundwater monitoring and data submittal requirements that are used to evaluate facility compliance with ch. NR 140, Wis. Adm. Code, groundwater quality standards. Groundwater monitoring systems at existing facilities are upgraded as necessary.
The System for Wastewater Applications, Monitoring, and Permits (SWAMP) database, for holders of specific WPDES and general permits, stores facility specific information such as address, contacts, location, permit requirements, monitoring results, and violations of permit requirements for private and municipal wastewater treatment facilities, and contains current and historical information on groundwater and wastewater/biosolids treatment. Sampling results and site loading information are also available for land application of municipal and industrial biosolids, septage, and wastewater.
The Bureau assists unsewered communities, served by failing or inadequate private onsite wastewater treatment systems (POWTS) in their efforts to construct centralized wastewater treatment facilities, and issues permits to large POWTS (with a capacity of greater than 12,000 gallons per day) as a result of changes to Commerce Rules and a revised DNR/Commerce MOU.
Septage and sludge management - The Bureau of Watershed Management implements the regulations in chapters NR 113, NR 204 and NR 214, Wis. Adm. Code. NR 113 regulates septage management, and NR 204 governs the treatment and disposition of municipal wastewater treatment plant sludge. NR 113 and NR 204 incorporate federal septage and sludge standards. The Bureau regulates the land application of industrial sludge, liquid wastes and biosolids through NR 214. Chapters NR 113, NR 204 and NR 214 contain treatment standards and land application site requirements that are designed to prevent runoff to surface water or leaching of nutrients and pollutants to groundwater.
Agricultural runoff - There are currently 113 WPDES permits issued under the NR 243 permitting program for livestock operations (81% dairy; 9% poultry; 9% swine & beef) covering each of the operations that were at 1,000 animal units or higher. The trend of growing numbers of permit applications for operations with 1,000 or more animal units is expected to continue. Rules outlining Statewide performance standards and prohibitions for agricultural operations (nutrient management, manure storage design, clean water diversion, erosion control) became effective in October 2002. The performance standards and prohibitions have been a key component of the Department's Nonpoint Redesign Initiative, and are intended to further address impacts from animal feeding operations with less than 1,000 animal units.
Storm water – DNR has revised stormwater regulations under ch. NR 216, Wis. Adm. Code, and the revised rules will be effective in time for the 2004 construction season. The regulations will require nearly 200 municipal separate storm sewer systems to obtain permit coverage Statewide, and also require construction sites down to one acre of land disturbance, to have permit coverage to control erosion during construction. Permit holders will also be required to install post-construction practices to limit pollutant discharge after construction is completed (storm water management). The Department developed performance standards (i.e. 80% sediment control, infiltration, peak flow, buffer requirements, etc.), which will be implemented through storm water permits, especially for new development.
Nutrient management plans – The nutrient management performance standard, NRCS Standard 590 becomes effective January 1, 2005 for high priority areas in the State (source water areas, outstanding/exceptional resource waters, and impaired waters). The standard becomes effective for the remainder of the State in 2008. Federal, State and local agencies will be working to build the necessary resources and expertise to implement NRCS Standard 590.
For more information, visit the following website (http://www.dnr.state.wi.us ) or contact Todd Ambs at 608-264-6278 (Todd.Ambs@dnr.state.wi.us), or Mike Lemcke at 608-266-2104 (Michael.Lemcke@dnr.state.wi.us), DNR, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921.
Protecting Wisconsin's groundwater is a priority for the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). DATCP's major activities in this area include management of pesticides, research, and funding of local soil and water resource management projects.
In compliance with the Wisconsin Groundwater Law, DATCP manages pesticides and pesticide practices, including storage, handling, use, and disposal of pesticides, and the storage of bulk quantities of fertilizer, to assure that established groundwater standards for contaminants are not exceeded. This may include prohibition of certain activities, including pesticide use. The agency also manages practices to "minimize" groundwater contamination to the extent "technically and economically feasible."
DATCP coordinates Wisconsin's "generic" and "pesticide‑specific" State pesticide management plans (PMPs - previously known as SMPs) for protecting groundwater from pesticides. In FY 96, DATCP, in cooperation with DNR and other agencies, submitted Wisconsin's "Generic SMP for Protection of Groundwater from Pesticides" to the EPA, which accepted the Generic SMP in June 1996. According to the EPA "Pesticides in Groundwater Strategy" (1991), when EPA determines that a pesticide presents a significant risk of leaching to groundwater in a state, it may either cancel the registration of that compound, or allow the state to manage the pesticide to protect groundwater. The generic PMP presents a comprehensive review of Wisconsin's regulatory and non-regulatory efforts to prevent groundwater contamination due to pesticides. This generic plan serves as a framework for pesticide‑specific PMPs that EPA may require.
Enforcement standards have been established in Wisconsin, with additional standards proposed, for many known and potential groundwater contaminants, including over 30 pesticides. DATCP applies these standards and the Groundwater Law when addressing nonpoint and point sources of pesticide contamination in groundwater.
Pesticides. DATCP's primary effort regarding nonpoint (due to general use) contamination of groundwater from pesticides continues to involve the herbicide atrazine. In response to concerns about atrazine contamination, DATCP amended administrative rule ch. ATCP 30 in 1992 to manage the use of atrazine to reduce or eliminate the potential for further groundwater impacts, and has revised the rule annually in response to additional detections of atrazine in groundwater. A set of 102 maps of atrazine prohibition areas, covering 1.2 million acres, have been incorporated into the rule. Information suggests that atrazine use has declined from peak levels in the late 1980’s and is now holding roughly constant. The decline in use is partly a result of the atrazine management rule and concern about groundwater contamination.
Nutrients. DATCP, through its land and water resource management program, provides funding primarily to counties to assist in the protection of water resources through farmer adoption of nutrient management planning. A portion of this funding is dedicated to the development and implementation of improved nutrient and pesticide management practices on farms, to maximize profitability, and to minimize excessive runoff of nutrients to surface and groundwater. Staff trains farmers, consultants, and local agencies on the principles of sound nutrient management and how to comply with performance standards.
Point source prevention for agrichemicals includes Agricultural Clean Sweep, enforcement of product containment rules and handling regulations, and education beyond the rule requirements through the Environmental Partners program. Point source cleanup activities are performed under the Agricultural Chemical Cleanup Program (ACCP), which provides technical oversight and reimbursement to offset much of the costs for investigation and cleanup.
Since 1990, the Agricultural Clean Sweep program has helped farmers dispose of unwanted pesticides, farm chemicals, and empty pesticide containers. Beginning in 1996, the program extended collection services to small agricultural businesses.
DATCP's rules for minimizing environmental damage from agrichemical storage and handling were put in place in 1988. Fifteen local DATCP specialists work with facilities across the State to keep them in compliance with the ATCP rules designed to protect the environment. DATCP staff educates facility managers and employees about how routine practices may affect the environment.
The Environmental Partners program, with the agrichemical industry and Department working together to identify problems and brainstorm ideas to reduce pollution, works to reduce the amount of agrichemicals that escape into the environment. In this voluntary program, ideas used to solve problems at each facility are shared so that everyone can learn and benefit.
In August 1993, section 94.73 of the Wis. Stats. established the Agricultural Chemical Cleanup Program (ACCP) to address point sources of contamination. The ACCP reimburses responsible parties for cleanup costs related to pesticide and fertilizer contamination at facilities and in nearby wells, and point source contamination on farms. More that 350 cases involving soil and groundwater remediation related to spills, misuse, and improper storage or mixing and loading have been initiated at pesticide and fertilizer facilities, and on farms.
The ACCP also funds DATCP oversight of pesticide and fertilizer cleanup activities, including investigation, sample collection, laboratory analysis, and financial auditing. Investigations at pesticide and fertilizer contaminated sites are prioritized based on suspected contamination levels, and include discussions with facility staff or farmers to determine the most likely locations of contamination.
Groundwater Sampling Surveys
Exceedence Survey. From 1995-2002, DATCP has conducted a sampling program of private wells that have previously exceeded a pesticide enforcement standard, with most of the wells in atrazine prohibition areas. 150 wells have been re-sampled at least once in this program for common pesticides and nitrate.
Pesticide and Groundwater Impacts Study. In 1985, DATCP began a study to determine if normal field application and use of pesticides and fertilizer was causing groundwater contamination at highly susceptible sites (e.g. sandy soils, less than 25 ft. to groundwater). As many as 50 different fields have been sampled each year. Currently, 22 sites are being monitored. This monitoring well network is maintained primarily as an early warning system for newly introduced pesticides.
Monitoring Reuse of Atrazine in Prohibition Areas. Ch. ATCP 31, Wis. Adm. Code, requires DATCP to collect scientific data to show, if renewed use of atrazine in prohibition areas will cause further groundwater contamination.
In FY 98, DATCP began a five year study of the limited reuse of atrazine in selected prohibition areas, monitoring groundwater quarterly at 17 fields, 10-40 acres in size.
Atrazine Rule Evaluation Survey. In 1994 and 1996, DATCP completed groundwater sampling surveys designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the Atrazine Rule (ch. ATCP 30, Wis. Adm. Code). These surveys were designed to determine how levels of atrazine and its metabolites in groundwater were changing three and five years after the atrazine restrictions went into effect. In 2000 and 2001, 336 private wells were sampled across the State, including 122 of the same wells sampled in 1996, with results summarized in the May 2002 report “Groundwater Quality: Agricultural Chemicals in Wisconsin Groundwater”, which may be downloaded at http://datcp.state.wi.us/arm/agriculture/land-water/water-quality/monit_proj.html.
DATCP's research fund, based on fees (approximately $135,000 annually) paid by pesticide manufacturers, supported three continuing pesticide research projects during FY 03 to 1) evaluate pesticide and nitrate leaching on soils receiving manure, 2) evaluate agrichemical residues in two groundwater basins, and 3) to determine the occurrence of antibiotics in wastewater effluents and their mobility in soils.
Groundwater Data Management
Up-to-date, reliable data about pesticide and nitrate-N contamination of
groundwater is essential in development of substance specific rules about
pesticide use, such as DATCP's "Pesticide Product Restrictions" (Chapter ATCP
30, Wis. Adm. Code), in response to location specific citizen requests for
groundwater quality data, and for initiation of timely investigations of
pesticide contamination of groundwater. Because DATCP uses its data for
regulatory purposes, it maintains the high quality of its databases by carefully
cross-referencing lab slips and computerized data from DATCP’s laboratory, DNR,
and other local and State agencies to coordinate groundwater data collection,
and to assure the integrity of groundwater data in Wisconsin.
DATCP maintains two groundwater sample databases containing information for over
37,000 wells, and over 217,000 pesticide and nitrate-N results, representing
samples analyzed by DATCP, SLOH, and other public and private laboratories. The
Drinking Water Well System contains contact and location information, and well
characteristics for private and public drinking water wells, while the
Monitoring Well System contains similar information for monitoring wells, and
also tracks specific pesticide use history, soils, crop history, well
construction, and precipitation and irrigation at monitored sites.
DATCP uses geographic information system (GIS) tools for groundwater data
analysis and map preparation for public information meetings and hearings, and
DATCP board meetings. DATCP prepares and maintains ArcInfo and ArcView data
layers of well locations, atrazine concentrations, atrazine prohibition areas,
and other pesticide and nitrate-N data. These GIS layers and associated database
information are used to generate maps of Statewide pesticide and nitrate-N
detections in wells, as well as maps for chapter ATCP 30, Wis. Adm. Code
(Pesticide Product Restrictions). DATCP also uses global positioning system
(GPS) receivers to locate and map wells and other features, such as agrichemical
facilities and spill sites that may affect groundwater quality.
For further information, visit the following web site (http://datcp.state.wi.us) or contact Nicholas Neher, DATCP, 2811 Agriculture Drive, PO Box 8911, Madison, Wisconsin, 53708‑8911; phone: 608‑224‑4567; e-mail: nicholas.neher@datcp.state.wi.us.
Chapter Comm 10, Wis. Adm. Code, regulates flammable and combustible liquids, and hazardous substance liquids, on the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation Liability Act (CERCLA) list. The regulatory authority for the storage tank program is within the Division of Environmental and Regulatory Services (ERS) in the Department of Commerce. The ERS Division has two bureaus: Petroleum Products and Tanks, and PECFA.
Under 145.02, Wis. Stats., the Department of Commerce also has the responsibility of safeguarding public health and the waters of the State by regulating the construction, installation, and maintenance of plumbing under State code chapters Comm 81-87. Chapter Comm 83, addressing Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS) is administered by the Division of Buildings and Safety.
The State Uniform Plumbing Code, Chapters Comm 81 – 87, was revised effective May 1, 2003, and additional revisions are under consideration. In addition to public health and safety, the water supply and quality issues facing Wisconsin are a focus of the General Plumbing and POWTS programs in the Department of Commerce.
General Plumbing – Graywater Reuse and Stormwater Use. In May 2003, Chapter Comm 82 of the plumbing code was revised to specify the plumbing system treatment performance standards for stormwater reuse. Also within the plumbing code are the requirements for graywater (lavatory, shower, laundry) treatment and reuse. These options for stormwater use and graywater reuse will maintain high safety and health standards, while providing the impetus for Wisconsin citizens to learn more about water conservation issues.
Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS). The POWTS code, Comm 83, implemented on July 1, 2000, allows for innovative waste treatment systems, which meet “performance standards” for treatment rather than simply prescribing certain types of soil absorption based systems. POWTS can be sited on soils previously considered unsuitable for soil absorption sewage treatment. Even with the availability of additional onsite treatment options, most property owners continue to choose the same types of POWTS that were available under the previous code. The majority of these standard POWTS designs are being selected from the conventional, mound, pressure distribution, at-grade, and holding tank component manuals. Written management and contingency plans are now required to alert the owners of POWTS to the need for regular inspection, servicing, or maintenance. These plans provide for mandatory POWTS scheduled maintenance and reporting of maintenance events over the life of the POWTS. The number of State registered POWTS Maintainers continues to increase, and continuing education provided by private vendors and UW Extension will help insure that the maintenance requirements are met. Revisions to Comm 83 code will be implemented early in 2004. The Department continues to communicate with the Department of Natural Resources regarding mutual issues such as large onsite sewage systems.
The ERS division continues to maintain regulatory oversight of aboveground and underground petroleum and CERCLA hazardous substance storage tanks in the Comm 10 administrative code. Underground storage tank (UST) regulations include the Federal EPA Underground Storage Tank requirements, as well as heating fuels and emergency generator tanks rules. Comm 10 was recently revised to update adopted standards and technical requirements to address current needs and technology.
Nearly 177,000 UST’s are now inventoried, as previously unregistered tanks have become registered. As of June 6, 2003, the database inventory of petroleum product tanks regulated under Comm 10 included 79,120 federally regulated tanks, with only 12,664 of them in use. In order to maintain a federally regulated tank in use, the tank must have a valid “permit-to-operate”, and an annual inspection. Annual inspections involve verification of leak detection, spill and overfill protection, and record keeping. Permit renewal review includes assessment of the owner’s financial responsibility.
Program initiatives have resulted in identifying more UST’s, reducing the number in use, and upgrading UST’s in use to meet the State and federal upgrade requirements. The closure of federally regulated tanks will continue, but at a slower pace than experienced over the past few years. Closure of unused residential heating fuel tanks is continuing at a strong pace, as the potential problems and liability are recognized.
Existing, aboveground, bulk storage facilities were subject to release prevention upgrade requirements in 2001, providing an enhanced measure of environmental protection over the former levels of acceptance, and reducing the number of bulk plants by approximately 30%.
Proactive educational outreach efforts and annual inspections by the Department and its agents continue a high level of regulatory compliance, with a corresponding reduction of environmental contamination from system failures.
Petroleum Environmental Cleanup Fund Act (PECFA)
The PECFA program, supported by the petroleum inspection fee, reimbursed petroleum storage tank system owners approximately $1.3 billion (from August 1989 through June 2003) for investigation and remediation of petroleum contamination in both soil and groundwater. The program, in addition to auditing owner invoices and authorizing payments, performs technical reviews of site investigations, remedial options, and grants closures for the majority of the State’s leaking underground storage tank (LUST) sites. Currently, PECFA is making reimbursement payments approximately 6 months after the claim is received. The Department uses competitive bidding, to establish a reimbursement cap for investigation and cleanup activities, at contaminated sites where total costs are expected to exceed $60,000. Commerce has completed the bidding process for 400 sites. The Department is currently reviewing existing sites that have been reimbursed more than $200,000, to evaluate the status of these sites.
Commerce maintains databases of properties with either past or current petroleum contamination and underground petroleum storage tank systems. The database also stores information on activities associated with onsite sewage system design, installation, and maintenance. The Department is studying whether Sanitary Permit information collected by counties may be integrated with information on POWTS servicing, maintenance, and inspection activities that are required to be reported and tracked.
For more information, visit the following web site (http://www.commerce.state.wi.us) or contact Berni Mattsson, ERS Division Administrator, P. O. Box 7839, Madison, Wisconsin 53707-7839, phone: 608-266-9403, fax: 608-267-1381; e-mail bmattson@commerce.state.wi.us.
Chapter 160, Wis. Stats., directs the Department of Health and Family Services (DHFS) to recommend health-based enforcement standards for substances found in groundwater, and specifies the protocol for developing the recommended standards. Recommended standards are sent to the DNR to be submitted as amendments to ch. NR 140, Wis. Adm. Code. DHFS staff serves as a primary resource for information about the health risks posed by drinking water contaminants, and are charged with investigating suspected cases of water-borne illness. Toxicologists, public health educators, and epidemiologists employed in the Department’s Division of Public Health present this information to the public at meetings and conferences, and provide direct assistance to Wisconsin families via home visits, letters to well owners, and telephone consultations, and a wide variety of informational materials on groundwater and drinking water issues related to human health.
DHFS staff review correspondence sent to well owners by DNR, and provide supplemental advice to owners of wells that are highly contaminated with volatile substances such as benzene and vinyl chloride, especially in cases where the contaminants may pose concerns from inhalation of indoor air. Follow-up letters sent by DHFS explain the health effects of specific contaminants and suggest strategies for reducing exposure until a safe water supply can be established. DHFS staff also reviews the toxicity of constituents of well construction and rehabilitation products to ensure that products approved for use in Wisconsin can be used safely without risk of chemical overexposure.
Summary of Agency Activities in FY 03
The Natural Resources Board approved five proposed groundwater enforcement standards for public hearing in June 2002. DHFS staff has reviewed comments and preliminary data from a new study on the toxicity of the ethane sulfonic acid (alachlor ESA) metabolite of alachlor. Once these reviews are complete, DHFS will forward final recommendations to the DNR for consideration by the Natural Resources Board. In May 2003, DHFS submitted a supplemental recommendation to reduce the groundwater enforcement standard for arsenic from 50 µg/L to 10 µg/L, consistent with new Federal regulations.
In the fall of 2002, DHFS staff worked with representatives of the Centers for Disease Control to determine whether methyl-t-butyl ether (MTBE) can be detected in the blood of residents exposed to low levels (1–5 µg/L) in public water systems. MTBE is a motor fuel additive (designed to reduce air pollution) that has become a persistent and problematic groundwater contaminant in many parts of the United States. Preliminary findings suggest that MTBE can be detected in the blood of people who consume water with low-level MTBE contamination, and there appears to be a low background level of MTBE exposure from motor vehicle use that is detectable in residents of rural Wisconsin.
During 2002-2003, DHFS staff worked with State and federal environmental health agencies to develop concepts and methods for the investigation of organic vapor intrusion into residences and commercial buildings. Vapor intrusion describes a hydrogeological scenario where petroleum or solvents dissolved in contaminated groundwater vaporize, move upward through spaces between soil particles, and ultimately enter buildings through spaces in the foundation. Investigating the health threat from this exposure pathway is a rapidly emerging area of environmental science.
DHFS staff has been active in research and outreach activities relating to naturally-occurring arsenic in groundwater in Winnebago, Outagamie, and Brown Counties. Long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water has been shown to contribute to increased risk of skin, lung and bladder cancers, as well as a number of cardiovascular and dermatological problems. Other conditions that may be related to arsenic exposure include diabetes and adverse reproductive outcomes. People over the age of 50 were more likely to report a diagnosis of skin cancer, if they had consumed water that had an arsenic concentration greater than 5 µg/L for 10 years or more. Cigarette use was also associated with higher skin cancer rates: residents who both smoked and consumed arsenic-contaminated water reported the highest skin cancer prevalence rate.
For more information, visit the following web page (http://www.dhfs.state.wi.us/eh/Water/index.htm) or contact Henry Anderson (608-266-1253; anderha@dhfs.state.wi.us), Lynda Knobeloch (608-266-0923; knobelm@dhfs.state.wi.us) or Mark Werner (608-266-7480; wernema@dhfs.state.wi.us), 1 W. Wilson St., Rm. 150, Madison, Wisconsin, 53701.
The Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS) performs basic and applied groundwater research, and provides technical assistance, maps, and other information and education to aid in the management of groundwater resources, and in the understanding of groundwater recharge, occurrence, quality, and movement.
The Statewide groundwater-level monitoring network has been operated jointly with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) since 1946. Currently, the network consists of approximately 140 wells in 66 counties. The groundwater-level monitoring network provides a consistent, long-term record of fluctuations in water levels in deep and shallow aquifers. Such information is critical for accurate analyses of the effects of high-capacity well pumping, the response of groundwater levels to droughts, and the effects of land-use changes on groundwater systems. The long-term data (available on the USGS web site at http://wi.water.usgs.gov/gw/) are also used for calibration of regional groundwater models.
County studies. Geologic and groundwater studies at the county scale were carried out during FY 03 in Dane, Calumet, Fond du Lac, La Crosse, and Waukesha Counties.
Geologic and hydrogeologic analyses in southeastern Wisconsin. A quantitative study of the deep sandstone aquifer, which provides most of the water to the high-capacity wells serving the southeastern Wisconsin communities of Waukesha, Brookfield, Germantown, Menominee Falls, and Pewaukee, among others, was carried out. Concerns exist that rapidly falling groundwater levels indicate that water supply will not be able to keep pace with development.
Groundwater Research Activities
Aquitard research. In late 2001, the WGNHS received a grant for evaluation of the properties of aquitards in Dane County and southeastern Wisconsin. During 2002, the project team developed a bibliography and state-of-the-science report on aquitard hydrogeology. During 2003, the team investigated aquitards at field sites in Dane, Waukesha, and Adams Counties.
Arsenic in groundwater. The WGNHS, with DNR support, is carrying out research on the source(s) and geochemical characteristics of arsenic contamination in water-supply wells in northeastern and southeastern Wisconsin. In FY 03 the WGNHS completed a project in the Fox River Valley that evaluated mechanisms of arsenic release to groundwater from domestic wells completed in the St. Peter sandstone aquifer, including the effects of well chlorination on arsenic levels. DNR staff is using the information to develop well construction guidelines for affected areas within Outagamie and Winnebago Counties.
Groundwater recharge. Groundwater recharge is critical to maintaining the supply of Wisconsin’s groundwater, but mapping and quantifying recharge areas and rates can be a difficult process. In cooperation with UW-Madison, the WGNHS has developed a computerized technique for rapidly delineating recharge areas for use in regional groundwater models. This method couples GIS techniques with basic landscape data and rainfall-runoff modeling, and is being tested in Dane County.
Effects of land-use changes on temperature in trout streams. During FY 02 and 03, the WGNHS conducted a study of how land-use changes affect groundwater recharge, and how recharge changes, in turn, impact the discharge and surface-water temperatures in trout streams
Crandon Mine. The WGNHS has also been actively assisting the DNR in its review of the proposed massive sulfide mine near Crandon, Wisconsin. This review includes development and testing of groundwater flow and contaminant transport models being used to evaluate the potential effects of the mine on local groundwater and surface-water features.
Investigation of unsewered rural subdivisions. Population growth and urban expansion in many areas has resulted in residential development on formerly agricultural land, but there have been few studies of the impacts of such developments on groundwater quality. To document the effects of this land-use conversion on groundwater quality, the WGNHS initiated a monitoring program to collect water-quality data before, during, and after construction of a new, unsewered subdivision located on agricultural land several miles outside of Madison, Wisconsin. This project is one of the first scientifically rigorous studies of the before-and-after impacts of rural subdivisions in the United States.
WGNHS groundwater education programs for the general public are usually coordinated with the UW-Extension county-based faculty, the DNR, the Central Wisconsin Groundwater Center, or the UW-Extension Environmental Resources Center. The WGNHS also produces and serves as a distributor of many groundwater educational publications and visual aids. We also provide a collection of representative Wisconsin rocks for teachers to use, which include samples of our major aquifers.
Groundwater Data Management
Computerized groundwater databases, including geographic information systems (GIS) data, continue to be developed at the Survey, usually on a project basis to assist with ongoing research. A high priority is to make high quality, accurate digital datasets available to State agencies and the public. In FY 03, the WGNHS developed a version of the primary geologic database for distribution to the general public in digital format. This database, called WiscLith, contains lithologic and stratigraphic descriptions of geologic samples collected from across the State. The database is searchable by location, stratigraphy, and lithology. The database will be published on CD-ROM and will be available in the first quarter of FY 04.
The WGNHS serves as the repository for 1936–1995 Well Constructors’ Reports, one- to two-page reports that are usually submitted to the DNR by a well driller within a few months of a well’s completion. Approximately 400,000 of these reports are on file at the Survey. Approximately 350,000 of the Well Constructors’ Reports (those covering 1936–1989) have been scanned, and information has been entered into a basic database. The database and scanned images are now available on CD-ROM. The computerization of these records allows WGNHS to provide better, more usable information to the public. Locational information on the Well Constructors’ Reports is scrutinized and updated during our County and regional studies. The development of a separate Statewide database for approximately 36,000 geologic logs and drillcores is ongoing.
For more information, contact Ken Bradbury, Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey, 3817 Mineral Point Road, Madison, Wisconsin, 53705-5100; phone: 608-263-7389; email: krbradbu@facstaff.wisc.edu; web site: <http://www.uwex.edu/wgnhs/>.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates the storage of highway salt (ss. 85.17 and 85.18, Wis. Stats.) to protect the waters of the State from harm due to contamination by dissolved chloride. DOT is also responsible for potable well sampling at 29 rest areas and 102 waysides. Other DOT groundwater related activities include:
· Salt Use and Storage - Bureau of Highway Operations
· Salt Research - Bureau of Highway Construction (Geotechnical Section)
· Hazardous Materials (petroleum) - Bureau of Environment
· Hazardous Waste - Division of Business Management (Risk & Safety Management Section)
· Wetlands - Bureau of Environment
· Erosion Control and Storm Water Management - Bureau of Environment
· Potable Well Sampling - Bureau of Highway Operations
Highway salt is stored Statewide by suppliers, counties, cities, villages, and private companies. Annual inspections occur, and reports are provided for salt storage sites to insure that storage practices are in accordance with ch. Trans 277, Wis. Adm. Code (Highway Salt Storage Requirements). The intent of the Code is to help prevent entry of highway salts into waters of the State from storage facilities. All salt must be covered and stored on an impermeable base. The base for stockpiles is required to function as a holding basin and to prevent runoff. The covers must consist of impermeable materials or structures to prevent contact with precipitation. State funded facilities are being added to the DOT salt storage program to provide greater capacity of indoor storage, thus improving groundwater protection.
The DOT annually updates salt storage facility records and assists the DNR source water protection program in locating salt storage facilities. There are currently 1,193 salt storage sites (and 2,294 sub-sites) listed in the database. Each county updates monthly a detailed inventory of salt facilities, including quantities, inspections, repairs, and improvements.
The DOT Bureau of Highway Operations produces the Annual Winter Maintenance Report, describing Statewide salt use, based on weekly reports from each county. Current policy in the State Highway Maintenance Manual restricts the spreading of deicer salts to a maximum of 400 pounds per lane mile per initial application, and 300 pounds per lane mile for subsequent applications. Electronic controls for salt spreader trucks are continually tested to record and verify application rates and coverage effectiveness. Other new technology is used on county highway patrol trucks to keep salt on pavement surfaces (e.g., zero-velocity spreaders, ground speed controllers, and onboard liquid pre-wetting units). Additional efforts to minimize and conserve salt applications include the use of in situ weather monitoring system. Pavement temperature sensors recorded at 56 separate locations along major highway routes are used to help determine the timing and method of sand and salt application rates. Annual training for proper snowplowing and salt spreading techniques is provided for county snowplow operators.
Since 1970, DOT has investigated potential road salt impacts on the environment adjacent to highways. Early investigations (1970s to early 80s) were focused on evaluating road salt impacts to surface water runoff, vegetation, and soils. In the last several years, DOT has conducted limited investigations evaluating road salt impacts to groundwater (1 or 2 shallow monitoring wells per site). To date, approximately 20 sites throughout the State have been studied. In general, each site is monitored quarterly for a period of 5 years. The monitoring consists of analyzing soil, water, or vegetation samples for calcium, sodium, chloride, and electrical conductivity. Approximately 5 sites are currently monitored, and future groundwater monitoring plans are being evaluated. Results from the studies are discussed in five separate DOT progress reports entitled: Investigation of Road Salt Content of Soil, Water and Vegetation Adjacent to Highways in Wisconsin (1972, 1975, 1979, 1989 and 1996). The next progress report was due in 2003.
For more information, visit the following web site (http://www.dot.state.wi.us) or contact Mr. Robert Pearson, Hydrogeologist, Bureau of Environment, Room 451, P. O. Box 7965, Madison, Wisconsin 53707-7965; phone: 608-266-7980, or e-mail robert.pearson@dot.state.wi.us.
The University of Wisconsin System (UWS) research, teaching, and outreach responsibilities are integrated through cooperation and joint appointments of Extension personnel who work on groundwater resource issues with UWS staff, and State and federal agencies. Citizen outreach is accomplished through use of publications, public meetings, teleconferences, water testing, and satellite programs.
The UW Water Resources Institute (WRI), one of 54 located at land grant universities across the nation, promotes research, training, and information dissemination focused on the nation's water resources problems. The WRI research includes interdisciplinary projects in four broad areas: groundwater, surface water, groundwater-surface water interactions, and drinking water. Groundwater is a top priority at the Wisconsin WRI.
Teaching. Institutions within the UWS offer undergraduate- and graduate-level courses and programs focusing on diverse issues regarding groundwater resources.
Information transfer. Results of WRI-supported research are published in a variety of formats. Most WRI research appears in refereed professional journals, although results are also published in technical reports. In addition, WRI disseminates groundwater research results through its Web site at http://www.wri.wisc.edu/. Staff members maintain a complete list of publications at http://www.wri.wisc.edu/Publications/66-00pubs.html.
The Groundwater Research and Monitoring Project Web page at http://www.wri.wisc.edu/wgrmp/wgrmp.htm. presents summaries of the results of more than 100 completed Groundwater Research and Monitoring projects funded since 1989, and are updated as projects are completed.
The Online Directory, http://www.wri.wisc.edu/wriexpertise/index.asp, of Water Expertise and the Water Resources Library, first put online in 2000, contains more than 800 water experts, including groundwater professionals, and can be searched by area of expertise, research interests, or name. Users with an interest in water issues can contact the experts by phone, fax, or email
Water Resources Library. The Water Resources Library maintains a specialized collection of more than 25,000 water-related publications, 30 journals, and 100 newsletters. The collection covers all major topics in water resources, but is particularly strong in groundwater-related publications. A popular service is the K–12 water-related curricula collection. All materials are included in the UW-Madison online library catalog at http://madcat.library.wisc.edu. The Water Resources Library also maintains a Web site (http://wri.wisc.edu/library), which serves as a gateway to water-related information on the Web, as well as a guide to the library. Web users can pose questions to AskWater, the library’s online reference service.
The online Wisconsin Water Library will loan books to all Wisconsin residents, offer lists of water-related books and Web sites by topic, and provide virtual reference-desk service. It was scheduled to go online in July 2003 at http://aqua.wisc.edu/waterlibrary.
For more information, visit http://www.wri.wisc.edu/ or contact Dr. Anders W. Andren, director, UW-Madison Water Resources Institute, 1975 Willow Drive, Madison, WI 53706; phone (608) 262-0905, fax (608) 263-2063, or email awandren@seagrant.wisc.edu.
The Groundwater Center is part of the Center for Watershed Science and Education at the UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources, and frequently works through County Extension faculty to provide groundwater education and technical assistance to the citizens and governments of Wisconsin. Information can be found online at http://www.uwsp.edu/cnr/gndwater/. Programs range from answering citizen questions to helping communities with wellhead protection planning, describing the extent and causes of groundwater nonpoint pollution in Wisconsin, and working on groundwater policy. In 2002, the Center assisted over 3,100 households in having their water tested at its Water and Environmental Analysis Laboratory. Eleven education programs helped nearly 900 well owners in six counties understand potential remedies for these bacteria and nitrate problems, and the relationship of land use practices to groundwater quality.
The Groundwater Center maintains a database of private well testing data from the Water and Environmental Analysis Laboratory at UW-Stevens Point. Chemistry data includes pH, conductivity, alkalinity, total hardness, nitrate-nitrite, chloride, saturation index, and coliform bacteria. In 1998, a new sampling program for iron, sodium, potassium, copper, lead, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and triazine was also initiated. Arsenic and sulfate were added late in 1999. The database primarily covers the period 1985 to the present, and can be easily queried by local communities and groundwater managers.
Center staff is playing pivotal roles in a number of State groundwater issues. Working with partners in the private and public sectors on groundwater quantity policy and law is a current priority for the Center. A continuing effort this year involves using the national Groundwater Guardian program to build the groundwater knowledge and leadership skills of Wisconsin citizens in order to develop a Wisconsin grass-roots groundwater constituency. In partnership with the DNR, the Center supports a Statewide Groundwater Guardian program coordinator. The program has developed outreach materials, including a display, presentation, and brochure; made numerous presentations to interested groups; assisted the seven existing Wisconsin Groundwater Guardian communities in carrying out their activities; and conducted the highly successful First Annual Groundwater Festival. More about the Wisconsin Groundwater Guardian program can be found at http://www.uwsp.edu/cnr/gwguardian.
UWS Farm and Home Environmental Management Program. The UWS Farm and Home Environmental Management Program encompasses voluntary pollution risk assessment and prevention activities. The program was known originally for its Farm Assessment System (Farm*A*Syst) and Home Assessment System (Home*A*Syst) projects and materials. The “Farm and Home” program is currently launching new projects that build on previous lessons, and increasingly integrating water quality protection with other types of environmental citizenship. Projects are designed to enable and motivate urban and rural landowners, managers and residents to assess environmental and health risks, and to take voluntary actions to prevent pollution from long-term investments such as the siting of structures, and from daily management practices. The Healthy Homes Partnership, an offshoot of Home*A*Syst offers materials via CD and on the Web, as well as the current print edition of Help Yourself to a Healthy Home.
The Wisconsin Dairy Environmental Management Systems (EMS) project is coordinating interest among WDNR, commodity and farm organizations, environmental organizations, and private sector advocates of EMS. One tangible benefit to farmers that has emerged is reduced insurance rates for pollution and general liability. The Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board is collaborating on a web site to explain to farmers the relationships among various State environmental programs. Farmers engaged with EMS implementation indicate that the framework has improved their sense of security about their farm’s environmental and health impacts
· Agricultural Environmental Management Systems: Farm Management for Improving Your Environmental and Economic Bottom Line.
· Drinking Water and MTBE: A Guide for Private Well Owners (MTBE = Methyl tertiary-butyl ether). May be found on the web at: http://www.uwex.edu/farmandhome/wqpaap/products.html
· Healthy Home Satellite Videoconference. (2 hour videotape available at cost of production) Was broadcast on March 27, 2003 and featured presentations by content experts on asthma, mold, and integrated pest management. Participants had opportunities to interact with the experts through question and answer sessions. Information from: www.uwex.edu/healthyhome/satvideoconf/.
· Healthy Home Web Tool, “Help Yourself to a Healthy Home”. Interactive Web site and Demonstration CD. For more information, visit www.uwex.edu/healthyhome.
· Agriculture EMS web site for general public education about agricultural environmental management systems: www.uwex.edu/agems/
· Wisconsin EMS web site for dairy farmers to conduct environmental assessments and planning as part of their EMS development: www.uwex.edu/agems/dairy/wisems
UW Environmental Resources Center (ERC). The ERC develops a number of national youth groundwater education initiatives, providing coordination for two youth water education programs, Educating Young People About Water (EYPAW) and Give Water a Hand (GWAH). The EYPAW guides, and more than 140 water-related curricula provide assistance, for developing a community-based, youth water education program. The EYPAW web site, http://www.uwex.edu/erc/eypaw, provides access to a database that may be searched by grade level or water topic. The goals of the GWAH curriculum, at http://www.uwex.edu/erc/gwah, are to protect and improve local water quality by encouraging youth to investigate local issues, plan and complete a service project, and then address a problem they identify with the assistance of a local natural resource expert. Another youth water education initiative includes Agua Pura, a leader institute planning manual and guide for Latino water education. Find links to these programs on the ERC web site at http://www.uwex.edu/erc.
UW Nutrient and Pest Management (NPM) In 1990, a broad coalition of agricultural organizations, environmentalists, and the University sought funding for a water quality program for farmers and the agricultural community. Over the past thirteen years, the NPM outreach program has conducted on-farm demonstrations and education throughout Wisconsin, to address groundwater and surface water contamination from agriculture, and the profitability of recommended practices.
A major portion of the program’s focus has been nutrient management – the careful, profitable use of fertilizers and animal manures in crop production. During FY 02, NPM revised and distributed the Nutrient Management Farmer Education Curriculum that includes a discussion of nitrates in groundwater. NPM continues to work with Wisconsin farmers to ensure they are not over-applying nitrogen and other inputs so as to minimize potential losses to groundwater. More information on these efforts is available at the NPM web site (http://ipcm.wisc.edu).
Basin Education Program. The UWS cooperates with other State agencies involved with water resources and natural resource issues. In 1998, UW-Extension entered into a new partnership with the DNR and USDA-NRCS in Wisconsin. This new partnership provides land and water resources education in the State's 22 major river basins. Fifteen Basin Educators work collaboratively at the local (basin) level and receive State-level support for publication/educational material development, evaluation, and administration. More information can be found at http://clean-water.uwex.edu/index.html.
Multi-Agency Land and Water Education Grant Program (MALWEG). Coordinated by UW-Extension, MALWEG has funded ten groundwater-focused projects since its inception in 1997. These projects examined the effects of intensive rotational grazing on groundwater quality, provided well testing for rural landowners, and conducted Farm*A*Syst assessments to help farmers identify and address groundwater contamination on their property. More information can be found at http://clean-water.uwex.edu/malweg/index.htm. Altogether, between January 1, 1997, and December 31, 2002, 134 projects totaling over $1.8 million have been funded to improve Wisconsin's land and water resources.
For more information on UW Extension groundwater programs, contact Jim Peterson, UW Environmental Resources Center, 1545 Observatory Drive, WI 53706-1289, phone (608) 262-3799, fax (608) 262-2031, or email jopeters@wisc.edu; or George Kraft, Center for Watershed Science and Education, College of Natural Resources, UW-Stevens Point, Stevens Point, WI 54481; phone (715) 346-4270; email gndwater@uwsp.edu.
A great deal of effort in the Drinking Water Quality Program is focused on identifying and monitoring chemical and microbial contaminants in groundwater to protect the health of drinking water consumers through routine testing, emergency response, education and outreach, and specialized research services to the scientific and regulatory communities.
Contaminants routinely tested for, include all contaminants regulated by the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, as well as many emerging contaminants that appear on the USEPA Contaminant Candidate List. Another important focus of the WSLH Drinking Water Quality Program is emergency response to incidences involving groundwater contamination. For example, WSLH works with DHFS and DNR to investigate outbreaks of illnesses of unknown (possibly food or water) origin. Staff provides background information on the outbreaks for local public health officials, local media, and the general public. WSLH also responds to spills and incidents, and supports State agencies in remediation and emergency clean-up activities. Most recently, WSLH has focused its efforts on enhancing and expanding terrorism response programs.
For more information, visit the following website (http://www.slh.wisc.edu/) or contact William Sonzogni, Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene, 2601 Agriculture Drive, Madison, WI 53703, phone (608) 224-6200, or email sonzogni@facstaff.wisc.edu.
5.2 EXISTING LOCAL GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK
Local groundwater management has developed over the years since the Groundwater Management Plan was adopted in 1988. Currently, groundwater protection activities are carried out by Portage County staff, and by staff of the municipalities within the County. The Planning and Zoning Department (P&Z) was named the lead agency for County groundwater management, and houses many of the County’s groundwater regulatory programs. The Groundwater Citizens Advisory Committee advises the Planning and Zoning Committee, of the County Board, regarding groundwater policies and programs, and is responsible for many of the educational initiatives currently underway in the County.
Figure 5.2 Wellhead Protection
5.2.1 County Regulation
The County Zoning Ordinance covers the unincorporated Towns, except for Pine Grove (no zoning) and Grant (Town zoning), applying land use regulations to assure that construction occurs within a zoning district that allows (as much as possible) for compatible land uses. Much of the County is zoned General Agricultural, which district allows most activities associated with agriculture and rural residential development, provided lot size is appropriate to the Town zoning map, based on the Town land use plan. The minimum residential lot size is generally two acres, to prevent wells from being located too near the POWTS, and to provide for sufficient lot area to dilute groundwater contamination from the POWTS. Commercial and industrial uses (nonfarm and nonresidential) may be allowed as a special exception, with conditions set by the Board of Adjustment. Exclusive Agricultural (minimum lot size of 35 acres per residence, and allows only limited nonfarm residences on existing large lots), and Primary Agricultural (20 acres minimum) Zoning, designed to preserve large blocks of productive farmland, and to minimize conflicts between agriculture and rural residential development, are not present in all Towns. Agricultural Transition (10 acres minimum) and Low Density Agricultural (5 acres minimum) Zoning, are designed to preserve the rural character of outlying areas of the County, especially in areas identified in the local Town Land Use Plan.
It is very difficult to isolate new, rural residential development, with expectations of obtaining safe drinking water from a well, from agriculture, which uses pesticides and fertilizers (with associated leaching) to produce food crops. Given that nonfarm, rural residents make up eighty percent of the rural population, this type of isolation may be unrealistic. Because of groundwater flow paths up to several miles, and Portage County’s history of agriculture, a well installed in most areas of the County will produce drinking water that has been affected, to some extent, by agricultural contaminants. Areas downgradient from intensive, irrigated agriculture will likely show the greatest impacts. No zoning districts have been designed to keep future development out of these downgradient areas, although some of these areas are located in Conservancy Zoning (allowing very limited, low impact uses) to protect natural areas and open spaces.
Rural commercial and industrial development is allowed only in specific areas zoned for these uses. These developments may present greater groundwater threats (certainly less predictable than residential) depending on types of fuels and other chemicals that may be present, and the types of activities carried out. Some of the larger construction will require a special exception hearing by the Board of Adjustment, which may set groundwater protection criteria as conditions of approval. The Zoning Administrator and Assistant Zoning Administrator also provide regular checks of properties with high likelihood of groundwater contamination, such as auto salvage yards and other recycling operations, especially in conjunction with the County Board of Adjustment.
The County Wellhead Protection Ordinance (WHPO) is a special overlay district in the Zoning Ordinance, and applies groundwater protection regulations in the portions, located in the unincorporated areas, of the recharge areas of municipal wells (and industrial wells in municipal well fields). As with most new ordinances, when it was enacted in 1993, the WHPO inherited certain land uses that would not be allowed for new construction. The WHPO allows for upgrading of the groundwater protection equipment, rather than retaining deteriorating equipment, of these otherwise non-conforming uses. This provision has been used for a couple of gas stations in the City of Stevens Point recharge area. The WHPO (see APPENDIX WHPO) prohibits unsewered development in Zone A (one year time of travel), and prohibits certain other uses such as gas stations and hazardous chemicals in Zone B (five year time of travel) based on past groundwater pollution experience. Other uses in Zones B and C will require additional scrutiny, and perhaps special exception hearings to set groundwater protection conditions, such as secondary containment for fuel tanks, and stormwater management.
The County Subdivision Ordinance applies to lots (fifteen acres or smaller) created in the unincorporated areas of the County, and has specific provisions for considering groundwater quality as one of the criteria for deciding whether to approve the land division. The existing County GIS water quality databases are consulted, and, if existing wells in the area immediately surrounding the proposed lot have shown acceptable water quality, the lot split is not held up due to water quality concerns. If the data is incomplete or not sufficiently current, water tests from surrounding wells are taken by the County Water Quality Specialist at the expense of the subdivider. In the case of a proposed lot split in an atrazine moratorium area (known atrazine contamination above the health standard), the developer was required to install a well, and obtain a water sample that met health standards, prior to approval of the lot split.
If the groundwater is not suitable for human consumption, the proposed lot split will not be approved. Use of a treatment unit, such as reverse osmosis, to remove contaminants to a safe level, will not allow an otherwise unsuitable lot to be approved. Occasionally it is possible to obtain a safe water supply from a different part (isolated vertically from the contamination) of the aquifer, and thus prove the lot suitable.
Generally, samples taken under this provision have been analyzed for bacteria, nitrate nitrogen, pH, conductivity, chloride, alkalinity, hardness, corrosivity, and triazine at the Environmental Task Force Lab at UWSP. Pesticide scans have only occasionally been run due to the higher expense. However, as our data of pesticide levels obtained in the 1990’s may soon be too old to be usable, the higher cost analyses may be needed. Because the County does not have any data on locations of use of specific pesticides, general scans will be needed, including pesticides which may never have been used in a specific area.
The County Private Sewage System Ordinance regulates private onsite wastewater treatment systems (POWTS), and alternatives for waste disposal (such as privies and self contained toilets) in all areas of the County, both unincorporated and incorporated, where municipal sewer service is not provided. This is an area of primary importance in groundwater protection. County Onsite Waste Specialists verify soil tests submitted by certified soil testers to make certain that the proposed POWTS (new or replacement) is appropriate to the site. They review the plans submitted with a sanitary permit application, and issue the permit, if approvable. They inspect the construction of the POWTS during installation for code compliance. A sanitary permit is required for proposed construction before a building (or zoning) permit can be issued.
In addition to these duties, verifications of proper POWTS maintenance by property owners are required on a regular basis. Lack of proper maintenance of POWTS and sewage holding tanks, can result in system failures and serious health hazards, and follow-up enforcement can be initiated to prevent human exposure to contaminants. Failing POWTS and improper holding tank maintenance, have been implicated in hospitalization of children during diarrhea epidemics in western Portage County, and in Wood and Marathon Counties, according to Marshfield Clinic researcher Marc Borchardt. Many of the older POWTS, presumed to be failing, (Figure 5.3) are in soil similar to those in Borchardt’s study.
The County Animal Waste Storage Ordinance regulates manure storage and utilization Countywide. This ordinance is administered by Land Conservation Division staff. Groundwater and surface water contamination from improper manure management can be quite serious. Even proper application of animal waste, according to a nutrient management plan, can result in some nitrate nitrogen groundwater contamination. (Also see Section 3.3)
The County Human Health Hazard Ordinance has been applied by the Environmental Health Supervisor in situations where groundwater contamination, due to an unused well, was threatening other wells in the area. The County Health Officer has the authority to utilize this ordinance for serious groundwater contamination incidents.
The County Health and Human Services Department contracts with DNR to sample and inspect some public (non-municipal) water supplies in rural Portage County. Many of these wells have been upgraded as a result of this local oversight.
The County Solid Waste Department manages the County landfill and recycling programs. Disposal of garbage, in a properly managed facility, is a primary groundwater protection tool.
The County Emergency Management Department (EMD) maintains lists of facilities, housing large quantities of hazardous materials, and contingency plans for potential emergencies involving environmental releases. The EMD is also involved in providing for prompt cleanup of spills of hazardous materials, in conjunction with the County Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Team.
5.2.2 Local Government Regulation
Local governments, with public water supplies, provide groundwater management within their municipal boundaries in the areas of wellhead protection. Most of the municipal WHPO’s are quite similar to the County WHPO, providing for fairly equivalent groundwater protection, regardless of location of the municipal boundary.
These municipalities have well abandonment programs for abandonment of unused or potentially unsafe wells. The County does not currently provide this equivalent protection to unincorporated areas, though it is recommended in this document.
Other local regulation is in the area of installation and removal of fuel and hazardous liquid storage tanks conducted through the Fire Departments. Annual inspections of some commercial and industrial facilities with potentially hazardous chemicals on site, are also conducted by Fire Department personnel.
5.2.3 Political And Educational Institutions
The County Board of Supervisors ultimately decides what role the County will play in groundwater management, but does not do so without a significant amount of advice and information. The Groundwater Citizens Advisory Committee (GCAC) was created following adoption of the Groundwater Management Plan in 1988, and is made up of citizen members from each of the municipalities (though some seats are currently vacant). Due to the importance of this advisory role, members are appointed by their Town or Village Boards or City Council, and approved by the County Board.
The Groundwater Citizens Advisory Committee mission is to gather views and concerns, regarding groundwater protection and management in Portage County, from individual citizens and municipal governing boards, and to present recommendations to the Planning and Zoning Committee for consideration by the Portage County Board. To accomplish this goal, the following objectives were identified:
 | Develop a plan for protection and management of groundwater |
| Develop strategies for implementing a groundwater plan that protects the health of all citizens |
| Seek funding and staff support to aid in implementing recommendations |
| Identify research and education needs |
| Provide for public input |
| Provide a framework for County actions |
Membership on the GCAC consists of one representative from each of the 28 municipalities in Portage County. Since some municipalities decline participation or lack a representative, current membership consists of 20 individuals. Elected officials are ineligible for committee membership. GCAC generally meets six times per year, but special meetings have been called to deal with specific issues.
GCAC has formed three Subcommittees to carry out specific portions of its mission – Public Involvement and Education, Groundwater Management Planning and Implementation, and Continual Assessment. Membership on the Subcommittees is open to any interested individual, although the Subcommittee chairs must be GCAC members.
The Public Involvement and Education Subcommittee (PIE) mission is to provide access to groundwater information, and a platform for public involvement in groundwater management decision-making. This Subcommittee has been responsible for a wide variety of educational and outreach activities such as:
| Sponsored and helped develop the Portage County Value of Groundwater Survey (1997) |
| Commissioned the report “Portage County Groundwater Conditions” (Kraft and Mechenich 2000) |
| Developed a slide presentation to inform civic organizations and elected municipal boards regarding the challenges for groundwater contained in the report. (2001) |
| Helped develop the Portage County Groundwater Website (2001) |
Portage County UW Extension staff continually assists in PIE educational and outreach activities.
The Groundwater Management Planning and Implementation (GMPI) Subcommittee mission is to author, update, and implement the Groundwater Management Plan for Portage County. The Subcommittee has been involved in every step of the process of developing this Plan. On a continuing basis, this Subcommittee:
| Sets and revises groundwater management goals |
| Develops and revises strategies to achieve those goals |
| Assesses and reports on progress towards those goals. |
In addition, the GMPI Subcommittee will prepare an annual progress report, to serve as the revisions and updates to the Groundwater Management Plan. This report will be presented to the Portage County Planning and Zoning Committee and the County Board, sharing the latest condition and prognosis of our groundwater.
The Continual Assessment Subcommittee (CAS) mission is to design and implement a long-term monitoring and assessment plan for groundwater quality and quantity for Portage County. This subcommittee will play a critical role in determining whether the County groundwater management goals and strategies are having their desired effect. Existing databases will be utilized to identify data strengths and weaknesses. In addition, the CAS will choose select monitoring points around the County (private and municipal wells, as well as surface water bodies) for long-term monitoring.
The Portage County Groundwater Guardians formed in 2001 as an offshoot of the PIE Subcommittee. Its mission is to educate Portage County citizens regarding groundwater protection. It has supplied County schools with educational videos and associated curriculum, and interested volunteers teach hands-on lessons in County elementary, middle, and junior high schools.
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