Data on water quality sought for state supply
The Wisconsin DNR is seeking data on the water quality of lakes, streams and rivers in the state. Every two years, the DNR requests Wisconsinites and interested groups, submit their biological, chemical and physical surface water data.
Along with department data, submitted data will be used to assess the quality of state’s water resources and pinpoint problem areas. In accordance with the Clean Water Act, the DNR uses these assessments to prepare a statewide Integrated Water Quality Report, which includes an updated list of impaired waters.
Data will be accepted from Dec. 7 through Jan. 15, 2021.
The DNR is especially interested in data that adds the following: • Documents improvement, because of implementation of pollution control practices
• Documents healthy waters
• Supports planning for restoration or protection of water bodies
• Identifies public health risks
• Is from water bodies in the Fox River (southeast) basin, or Grant, Platte, Sugar or Pecatonica River basins
• Could be used for water quality criteria development in addition to assessments Data must be submitted electronically and the information must be submitted in specific Excel spreadsheet formats, along with quality assurance documentation.
Required elements include a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP); data in the specified Excel spreadsheet format (template provided); locational information in specified spreadsheet format (template provided); and general information about the submitter.
Templates and instructions are available on the Surface Water Public Participation webpage. Data received as PDF files or in other hard copy formats, will not be accepted.
