League Supports Budget Proposal to Restore Scientific Research and Evidence for DNR Standards

The League of Women Voters of Wisconsin is pleased that the Governor’s budget proposal creates a Bureau of Natural Resources Science in the Division of Fish, Wildlife and Parks of the Department of Natural Resources. The Governor’s proposal also authorizes 5.0 new full time positions. At least two of these positions are assigned to work on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination of water resources. The funding for this will come from the segregated fees deposited in the Environmental Fund associated with the DNR. Until recently DNR research was based on DNR priorities and largely funded by state, federal and non-governmental funding sources.

This new Bureau of Natural Resources Science will not fully restore the 18.4 scientist positions that were eliminated in the 2015-2017 Biennial Budget, but this proposal does restore a lost focus for independent scientific research in the DNR. The Wisconsin DNR once enjoyed a proud reputation for its natural resource management research, evidence-based decision-making and professionalism. Restoring the DNR’s reputation starts with this investment in personnel and re-creation of the Science Bureau.

“It is only right that applied scientific information and impartial, objective evidence be the groundwork for the DNR’s oversight role in protecting the health of our natural resources including the air and water that impact human and wildlife health in our state,” said Erin Grunze, Executive Director.

###

The League of Women Voters of Wisconsin is a nonpartisan political organization that advocates for informed and active participation in government. There are 20 local Leagues throughout Wisconsin. More information at lwvwi.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    April 4, 2019      

Contact: Erin Grunze, Executive Director, 608-256-0827; egrunze [at] lwvwi.org