Update on development of the Wisconsin nitrate targeted performance standard (NR 151)
2021
- Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Project Media
Nitrate is the most widespread groundwater contaminant in Wisconsin, and it is especially
prevalent in areas with highly permeable soils. The majority of the state relies on groundwater
as their source of drinking water, and numerical groundwater standards for nitrate are in place to
protect public health. While Wisconsin adopted statewide performance standards and
prohibitions for agricultural and nonagricultural facilities in 2002 to achieve surface water and
groundwater quality standards, evidence suggests that the statewide standards and prohibitions
are insufficient to achieve groundwater standards for nitrate. The Department of Natural
Resources is developing targeted performance standards and prohibitions to achieve the
groundwater standard for nitrate in areas of the state that are susceptible to groundwater
contamination. The DNR convened a Technical Advisory Committee during 2020 to provide
input on rule development, and in 2021, the department will seek public comment on a draft
rule.