DNR Will Step Back From Writing Large Farm Permits

The head of Wisconsin`s Department of Natural Resources says an agency realignment plan that could give greater input to the private sector would help the environment.

DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp rolled out the much delayed reorganization plan at town hall meetings Wednesday with DNR employees. One section of the plan that drew immediate attention calls for the agency to take a less active initial role on environmental permits, including those for large livestock operations.

Instead, the agency would focus on reviewing the technical information in permit applications put together by qualified industry-hired consultants. Stepp said it`s a better use of her staff`s time. "Just approving what it is that they submit, versus us writing how it is they should meet the regulation. It will really take a huge burden off our staff, and that`s good for our environment," Stepp said....