Wisconsin ballast water rules still awaiting DNR’s final authorization

By Chuck Quirmbach, Wisconsin Public Radio

MADISON (WPR) The DNR is behind schedule on finalizing ballast water rules that would affect part of the Great Lakes shipping industry. 

The proposed rules would require any ocean-traveling ship that docks at Wisconsin ports to more thoroughly treat its ballast water.  Contaminated ballast can carry invasive species that harm Great Lakes water quality and aquatic life. The DNR held hearings on its proposal this spring and promised a decision by early last month. Several groups representing anglers and environmentalists say they worry the DMR is getting a lot of pressure from the shipping industry and Milwaukee dockworkers. 

George Meyer of the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation says the ballast water rule would only affect about 15 ships.  He says a court in the state of New York recently rejected a challenge to that state's ballast water rules.  The Wisconsin DNR says it's trying to have rules that will protect the waters and a robust shipping industry.

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Information from Wisconsin Public Radio, www.wpr.org