Abstract

Water management and regulation represent a large public policy problem. Freshwater resources are at risk as populations increase and more stress is placed on these water supplies. The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact is facing its first test as Waukesha, WI asks for a diversion of freshwater from the Great Lakes. The Waukesha wells are contaminated with radium, have been changing in water levels, and could impact the Root River if it is used as a return flow option. Through analysis of the water levels in Waukesha’s wells, the analysis of change in Great Lakes water levels, the water quality of Waukesha’s wells, and a preliminary study of impact to the Root River if used as a return flow option, Waukesha’s application was assessed based on the criteria of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact. Overall, Waukesha meets the requirements for a diversion of water from Lake Michigan. Waukesha has presented a case for a need for water, that water is for public use, the water would be returned to the source it is taken from, and the city is following through on water conservation measures, so the application could be passed on to a vote by the Great Lakes states. The decision made regarding Waukesha has the potential to shape water policy and future diversion applications.