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From the Chief
- by Liesa Lehmann, Private Water Supply Section Chief
We’re deep in winter snow in Wisconsin – a good time for continuing education and updating regulations. Thanks to everyone who submitted comments on proposed NR 812 Rule Changes – we appreciate your input! Staff are beginning to review all the comments and develop updated rule language in response. The proposed changes are not in effect – it will take another year to complete the rulemaking steps. We’ll keep you posted and let you know when final rule changes are approved.
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 What's New
Randell Clark retires
After more than 30 years of state service, Randell Clark retired on January 16, 2019. As a DNR Hydrogeologist, Randell analyzed geology and groundwater, developed data systems and maps, and processed landfill variances. Randell was also DNR’s resident expert in geothermal systems and regulation. Best wishes in your retirement Randell!
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 Welcome Frank Fetter
Frank Fetter returns to DNR as our new Private Water Policy coordinator. Some of you may have worked with Frank when he was a Private Water Field Specialist in Dodgeville from 2010-2012. Since then Frank has worked in other DNR programs and run his own consulting business. Frank will be DNR’s lead for NR 812 interpretation and rulemaking.
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From the Field
- by Marty Nessman, Private Water Supply Field Supervisor
Pitless Adaptor Pressure Test Reminder
NR 812.31 (2)(c) requires a pressure test of a pitless adaptor when they are installed on a school or high capacity well. The joints of the pitless adaptor or unit shall be tested and proven watertight under a pressure of 14 psi for at least 30 minutes. A pump installer is also required to notify the department 24 hours prior to testing so that a water supply specialist may witness the test.
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Technology Updates
- by Sandy Hershberger Private Water Compliance Specialist
Now’s the time to check out “Online WCR”, the internet-based Well Construction Report system where Wisconsin drillers can submit reports electronically. Once you enter data, Online WCR looks for common errors to make sure your information is complete before you submit, and the report goes directly to DNR, saving time for everyone. For an overview and step-by-step instructions, watch the new “How-to Videos” on DNR’s Driller/Installer web page, click on “Online WCR”. You only need a WAMS ID, password and assigned Unique Well Numbers to use the system. Go to Getting Started with Online WCR and give it a try!
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Compliance Corner
- by Beth Finzer, Public Water Supply Specialist
High nitrate in drinking water causes potentially deadly methemoglobinemia, or blue-baby syndrome. A growing body of research links high nitrate consumption to health risks in adults, including thyroid disease, cancer and birth defects. Due to these health effects and at the request of US EPA, DNR is developing a plan that would require all transient noncommunity (TN) public drinking water systems to comply with the federal nitrate standard of 10 milligrams/liter. Common TN systems include bars, restaurants and churches.
As a well professional you may be asked to assist a TN system by constructing a replacement well or identifying options for nitrate compliance. DNR is in the planning process and is currently reaching out to stakeholder groups for input. Beginning in 2020, TN systems that exceed the Nitrate standard would be given time to evaluate their options for returning to compliance – a minimum 3 years. DNR will be available throughout the process to help TN systems evaluate installing a new well or connecting to another water supply. Systems must consult with DNR and receive DSPS (Department of Safety and Professional Services) approval before installing any treatment. TN systems are required to sample at least annually for bacteria and nitrate. Out of the roughly 9,500 TN systems in the state, approximately 284 TN systems are operating with nitrate concentrations above the federal drinking water standard.
If you have questions, input or would like more information, please contact Beth Finzer at (608) 267-2451 or by email at Elizabeth.Finzer@wisconsin.gov.
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Enforcement Activity
After a lengthy DNR investigation, a judge in western Wisconsin handed down a criminal conviction against a former well driller and pump installer last month. Thanks to tips from local pump installers and well owners about code violations and fraudulent activity, DNR investigated and DOJ successfully prosecuted the case. The individual was found guilty of multiple code violations and fraud, and was ordered to serve 6-months in jail, pay nearly $10,000 in restitution, and serve a 3-year probation.
Most well professionals follow the regulations, and some might have an occasional misstep. DNR enforces regulations to protect public health, preserve groundwater and provide a level playing field for contractors. Our goal is to help everyone stay on the right path and do compliant work.
| If you are aware of or suspect safe drinking water violations - such as unlicensed work, noncompliant well construction practices or failure to properly sample drinking water - you can confidentially call or text this information to the numbers below, or submit a report online. |
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Final Tidbits
- State well grants are available to low-income well owners, providing cost-sharing dollars for well filing and sealing or replacement of a contaminated well. The well owner must apply for the grant before any work is done. See DNR’s Well Compensation or Well Abandonment web pages for application forms and more details.
- Required Forms for variance applications, inspection reports and other approvals are posted on the Driller/Installer Web Page. If you have difficulty downloading the Fillable PDF version of a form, try opening the Nonfillable PDF versions or use Internet Explorer as your web browser.
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NewsBits
NewsBits is published by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Drinking Water and Groundwater.
Archived issues are available at: dnr.wi.gov/topic/wells/newsbits.html.
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