The Wisconsin Groundwater Advocates are citizens who speak for the sustainable use of our groundwater resource.  A proposal before the DNR would loosen state wetland regulations to encourage more cranberry production.  We urge you to take action to stop this plan.  If after reading the information below you would like additional details, please feel free to contact us at:

Modify the following letter and please send it to the three people for whom
addresses have been provided.

Sen. Shibilski's vote in the Ag and Environment is a key.

Rep. DuWayne Jonsrud
P.O. 8952
Madison, WI  53708-8952

Sen. Kevin Shibilski
P.O. 7882
Madison, WI  53707-7882

Sen. Alice Clausing
P.O. 7882
Madison, WI  53707-7882
 

Dear                 :

I urge you to vote against implementation of proposed amendments to NR 103 affecting cranberry permitting in wetlands.  The proposed changes defy traditional Wisconsin protections for wetlands, and provide special
treatment for the cranberry industry not enjoyed by other industries.
Clearly this is a case where special interests are at work against the well
being of the whole.

Only the cranberry industry supports this proposal.  The proposed
amendments were thoroughly opposed at public hearing, by a margin of 942 to 18.  In addition, Secretary George Meyer stated, "...I do not believe this
rule change is necessary and clearly is not worth the public criticism that
it has generated toward the [Natural Resources] Board and the Department
[of Natural Resources]."  (October 9, 1997 Memorandum to Natural Resources Board).

The cranberry growers have argued that the protection of Wisconsin
wetlands will remain the same following the proposed amendments.  This is
wrong.  The proposed changes would eliminate the requirement of an
alternatives analysis for many cranberry conversion proposals, and would
allow the approval of projects that cannot currently be approved because
they have significant impacts. Further, the proposed amendments would
diminish Corps of Engineers permitting process for cranberry conversions.
No justification has been offered for why this successful industry should
receive a tailored exemption from Wisconsin laws.

The cranberry industry in thriving in Wisconsin today.  There is no need
for the proposed relaxation on expansions in wetlands.  This proposal
should be turned back to the Department of Natural Resources without
approval of the amendments pertaining to cranberry production.

Sincerely,