OCR Text |
Show 798 Wisconsin water quality standards for streams emptying into Lakes Superior and Michigan, and Green Bay shall be as high as "practicable." The powers of the department include the formulation of a long- range, comprehensive State water resources plan before July 1, 1968, which is to be reviewed by the agency every 2 years. Standards of water quality are to be promulgated, apparently after classifying the various waters of the State, and are required to protect the pub- lic as well as private interests. It is interesting to note that the act expressly provides that where potential water uses conflict, the standards are to be interpreted to protect the public interest. The act also provides that uses not inherently a source of pollution with- in an area are to be preferred over uses that are or may be a source of pollution. After an opportunity to be heard is accorded, the department may issue general rules relating to pollution abatement or prevention systems. Special orders directing particular persons to improve anti- pollution systems may also be issued. Temporary emergency orders may be issued without prior hearing, but a public hearing is there- after required as soon as is practicable. Approval is required for the withdrawal of ground water on any "one property" where the rate of withdrawal is in excess of 100,000 gallons per clay. Such applica- tions may be denied or conditionally granted if they would adversely affect the availability of water to any public utility which furnishes water to the public. In addition to conducting various types of research programs, the department administers a system of certification of waterworks and sewage treatment plants. Public agencies such as municipalities may be required to install appropriate pollution control systems where present practices tend to create a "nuisance or menace to health or comfort." In administering the program, the department is required to di- vide the State into not more than 12 regions, after considering such factors as river basins, watersheds, population density, economic and geologic factors. A departmental employee is designated to act as regional director. Regional boards are appointed and consist of the regional director as executive secretary, an employee of the depart- ment of health and social services, an employee of the department of natural resources, and five citizens who serve at the pleasure of the Governor. The department is required to study the feasibility of a system of effluent charges, and was to have reported its recommendations to the 1969 legislature. In addition to the general statute relating to the State's pollution control program, there are specific sections relating to septic tank permits,13 the approval of proposed sewage disposal systems,14 gar- bage and refuse disposal,15 sewage drains and house connections,16 and joint sewage systems.17 13 Sec. 144.03. 14 Sec. 144.04. 15 Sec. 144.045. 16 Sees. 144.05 and 144.06. "Sec. 144.07. |