DNR listening sessions to seek public input on PFAS contamination – Nov 18

On behalf of all Wisconsinites, I hope this message finds you safe and healthy. I know you had previously reached out on a related issue, so I wanted to make sure you were aware of the online listening sessions hosted by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to seek public input on PFAS contamination in Marinette, Peshtigo, and the surrounding communities. The listening sessions are set to occur on November 18 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 

As you may know, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of human-made chemicals that have been used for decades in numerous products including non-stick cookware, fast food wrappers, stain-resistant sprays, and certain types of firefighting foam. PFAS can make their way into the environment through spills of materials like wastewater discharge and treatment plant runoff. Last year, I directed the DNR to address challenges surrounding PFAS contamination through rulemaking that draws upon science-based recommendations from the Department of Health Services (DHS).

This meeting is the 11th in a series of 13 listening sessions that the DNR is hosting for residents of the Marinette-Peshtigo area. According to the DNR, this meeting will also include: 

• An update on potable well sampling in the Expanded Site Investigation Area.
  
• A presentation by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Division of Public Health on the groundwater quality standard recommendations for certain PFAS compounds, commonly referred to as “Cycle 11.”
  
• An update on recent fish tissue sampling and the next steps for sampling additional area water bodies. 

The DNR has encouraged that members of the public submit questions in advance through email at DNRJCIPFAS@wisconsin.gov. Any additional questions about how to participate in the listening session may be found here.

My administration is committed to protecting our state’s natural resources and ensuring that every Wisconsinite has access to clean drinking water. These meetings are an important part of that commitment as we continue to work with communities, citizens, and businesses to address PFAS contamination across our state.  

Sincerely, 

Tony Evers
Governor

GOVERNOR TONY EVERS
www.evers.wi.gov
govinfo@wisconsin.gov
P.O. Box 7863
Madison, WI 53703
Phone: (608) 266-1212