WISCONSIN STORMWATER WEEK PROCLAMATION

• WHEREAS, polluted stormwater runoff discharged into rivers, lakes, streams, and other waterways can result in the death of wildlife, destruction of vital ecosystems, contamination of drinking water resources, and disruption of recreational activity, threatening public health; and

• WHEREAS, the Clean Water Act of 1972 prohibits the discharge of any pollutant to navigable waters of the United States, unless authorized by the Environmental Protection Agency; and

• WHEREAS, a major source of pollutants in the navigable waters of the United States and Wisconsin is polluted urban and suburban stormwater runoff that flows directly into our waters, untreated; and

• WHEREAS, the common sources of stormwater pollution are sediments, road salt, automotive chemicals, litter and debris, household hazardous chemicals, bacteria, nutrients, and yard and pet waste; and

• WHEREAS, it is imperative that pollutants be prevented from entering stormwater runoff from Wisconsin’s roadways, homes, and businesses; and

• WHEREAS, this week provides an opportunity to encourage greater efforts across Wisconsin to reduce stormwater pollution;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Tony Evers, Governor of the State of Wisconsin, do hereby proclaim September 21-29, 2024 as

WISCONSIN STORMWATER WEEK

Throughout the State of Wisconsin and I commend this observance to all our state’s residents.