Policy Perspectives: Placing a Value on Wetlands

Until the late 20th century, wetlands were viewed as wastelands to be filled for agricultural or urban development. Today, we know wetlands serve several vital ecological, economic, and cultural roles. They store water to buffer against flooding, filter nutrients and… Read more

Great Lakes Restoration and Climate Change Conference at Wingspread

The Wingspread Event on Great Lakes Restoration and Climate Change (15-17 April 2014) convened renowned regional and national leaders, scientists and other Great Lakes stakeholders to discuss climate change impacts on restoration efforts in this vital system. Through plenary addresses and… Read more

More Storms Expected for Warmer Wisconsin

Our water and sewer infrastructure were designed under assumptions that no longer hold true. A wetter Wisconsin with more frequent, intense storms will tax that failing infrastructure, increasing the risk of waterborne disease. The extreme storms that wreaked catastrophic flooding… Read more

Kids most vulnerable to rain-related disease

Children under age 5 are most vulnerable to acute diarrhea and its complication of severe dehydration. The viruses that cause diarrhea are routinely found in groundwater and migrate into public water distribution systems even after treatment. Full Text PDF

Climate Change Impacts on Rain-Related Disease in Wisconsin

Impending hydrological changes due to climate change, combined with vulnerabilities due to failing infrastructure, pose a threat to public health. More frequent and intense storm events combined with leaky wastewater and drinking water pipes can promote waterborne diseases, often affecting… Read more