High-Capacity Well Measure Likely Dead In The Water

A controversial bill that would loosen government regulation on high-capacity wells may be dead in the state Senate.

The legislation would let owners of high-capacity wells repair or replace existing wells without a permit from the Department of Natural Resources. Owners could also transfer their well permit if they sell their property.

Sponsors say the bill provides stability for agricultural businesses that use the wells. Opponents contend that effectively extending the permits in perpetuity will hurt the environment, especially in areas where existing groundwater is scarce.

On Monday, a Senate committee approved small changes to plan, which has already passed the Assembly. If the Assembly doesn’t return to Madison to concur with the changes, the bill is dead.

“I think it’s up to our body to do what we think is right, regardless of what the Assembly does,” said Sen. Terry Moulton, who chairs the Senate’s agriculture committee.

The full Senate is scheduled to return to Madison Tuesday.