Kiera Jefferson
The Wisconsin River is one of the 51 waterways that the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) added to its list of polluted waterways in 2024. The river is notorious for its powerful currents and fast flow rate, which have caused several near-drowning incidents. The DNR has acknowledged that while most of Wisconsin's waterways are in good condition, there has been an increase in the number of polluted waterways since 2008, with the state's impaired waters listed for 1,481 pollutants. The Wisconsin River is particularly vulnerable to sedimentation, which can fill in important fish habitats and cover spawning grounds. Human activities have also introduced toxic chemicals into the river, threatening the health of the ecosystem and wildlife.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Phosphorus pollution | Excessive phosphorus from industrial, municipal, or farm runoff can fuel algae growth, potentially harming property values and public health. |
| Sedimentation | Filling in of the river and its backwaters with silt and sand particles, which can carry pollutants like PCBs and heavy metals. |
| Polluted runoff | Rainfall or snowmelt picks up natural and human-made pollutants, such as fertilizers, oil, grease, and agricultural residues, depositing them into the river. |
| PFOS and PFAS chemicals | Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, including PFOS, are synthetic chemicals harmful to human health and persistent in the environment. |
| Tree stumps and logs | Numerous hidden tree stumps and logs in the water pose dangers to boating and other water activities. |
| Sandbars and currents | The presence of shallow sandbars that suddenly drop off into deep water with strong currents creates hazardous conditions, especially for swimming. |
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Phosphorus pollution
Agricultural runoff is a major source of phosphorus pollution in the Wisconsin River. Phosphorus is a common component of fertilizers, and when it rains or snows, the water can pick up these fertilizers and carry them into rivers, lakes, and wetlands. This is known as polluted runoff, and it is a significant contributor to water pollution. To combat this, organizations like the River Alliance are advocating for phosphorus regulation and educating the public about the importance of clean water.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has also implemented measures to address phosphorus pollution. Wisconsin's Phosphorus Rule sets procedures for implementing phosphorus standards in permits issued to point sources discharging into surface waters. The rule includes measures such as facility upgrades, water quality trading, and adaptive management to reduce phosphorus pollution and improve water quality.
In addition to these efforts, research institutions like UW-Green Bay and UW-Madison are also tackling phosphorus pollution through research and education. They are combining cutting-edge research with hands-on learning experiences for students to better understand phosphorus transport and its impact on surface and groundwater. The findings from this research are being shared at professional conferences and submitted for publication, helping to spread knowledge about phosphorus pollution and potential mitigation strategies.
Successfully addressing phosphorus pollution in the Wisconsin River requires the participation of all stakeholders, including individuals, communities, farmers, and government entities. By working together and implementing a combination of regulatory measures, educational initiatives, and innovative research, it is possible to mitigate phosphorus pollution and improve the health of the Wisconsin River ecosystem.
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Toxic chemicals
While the Wisconsin River is not specifically mentioned in the search results, there is extensive information about toxic chemicals in the Mississippi River, into which the Wisconsin River flows.
The Mississippi River and its tributaries carry excessively high levels of nutrients and toxic chemicals, causing a biological dead zone, or hypoxia, at the river mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. This dead zone is an area of very low oxygen in the water, where marine wildlife is suffocated.
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large family of chemicals with nasty health effects. They are persistent in the environment and difficult to destroy. PFAS contamination rules have been established to limit PFAS chemical contamination in Wisconsin's groundwater and drinking water.
PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) are man-made chemicals that are colorless and odorless. They were widely used in industrial applications until the late 1970s due to their chemical and thermal stability. PCBs were later found to be dangerous, with prolonged exposure leading to health problems such as liver damage, cancer, and growth and developmental issues. The manufacture of PCBs in open systems was banned in 1979, but they continue to be a widespread problem in the river, with over seven billion pounds estimated to have escaped into the environment.
Sedimentation, the filling in of the river and its backwaters with silt and sand particles, is a serious problem in the Mississippi River. This sediment transports pollutants like PCBs and heavy metals, as well as nutrients like phosphorus, which can lead to algae blooms.
Preventing Toxic Chemical Pollution
To prevent polluted runoff, the River Alliance of WI advocates for phosphorus regulation and educates the public about advocating for clean water. They also work with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to ensure that water quality standards are met and that impacted Wisconsinites are empowered to take action and advocate for water issues in their communities.
Additionally, the Clean Water Act and other laws have been passed to protect natural resources and address water pollution. However, there are still weaknesses in the system used to regulate toxic substances, and human activities continue to introduce toxic chemicals into the environment.
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Sedimentation
The Upper Mississippi River is particularly vulnerable to sedimentation. This is because it drains a vast land area, and because the lock and dam system has changed the river's natural movement of sediment. Before the construction of the locks and dams, sediment was carried by the free-flowing river for long distances. Now, the locks and dams have transformed the river into a series of navigation pools with stabilized water levels, which has reduced the speed of the current and its ability to carry sediment.
The rate of sedimentation varies for different parts of the river but can be substantial. Sources of sediment are widespread and varied, including both rural and urban areas. Soil erosion sites such as croplands, highway construction, and home and commercial construction sites are common sources of sediment. For every unprotected acre under construction, about a dump truck and a half of soil is washed into nearby waterways.
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PFAS chemicals
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), also known as "forever" chemicals, are a family of over 3,000 human-made chemicals that have been in use since the 1940s. Due to their unique physical and chemical characteristics, they are resistant to oil, water, and temperature changes, making them useful in a wide range of products. PFAS can be found in non-stick coatings, waterproof fabrics, firefighting foams, food packaging, and other products.
PFAS have contaminated water sources in Wisconsin, including the Wisconsin River, and pose significant risks to public health. They are referred to as "forever" chemicals because they do not break down easily and tend to accumulate in the body and the environment over time. Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS can have multiple adverse health effects, including decreased fertility in women, increased risk of high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia during pregnancy, elevated cholesterol levels, decreased vaccine effectiveness, increased risk of thyroid disease, and lower infant birth weights.
The primary route of PFAS exposure for humans is through contaminated drinking water and consuming food packaged with PFAS-containing materials or caught from PFAS-contaminated waters, such as fish. PFAS can bioaccumulate in fish and other wildlife, leading to increased levels of these chemicals in the food chain. Inhalation and ingestion of household dust containing PFAS particles, especially for young children, is another potential exposure pathway.
To address the issue of PFAS contamination, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has developed an interactive data viewer to identify locations in the state impacted by these chemicals. Additionally, organizations like the River Alliance of WI work to prevent polluted runoff and advocate for regulations to ensure clean water for Wisconsinites. These efforts include educating the public about the causes of pollution and empowering communities to take action on water quality issues.
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Dangerous sandbars
The Wisconsin River is considered dangerous due to its constantly changing nature. Sandbars are especially hazardous, as they can shift and give way underfoot, leading to accidental drowning. The downstream end of a sandbar is often unstable and may not support a person's weight. Water erosion can cause the sudden collapse of sandbars, and the water depth can drop off from a few inches to several feet within a single step. The current can be deceptively strong, making it difficult to swim upstream and posing a risk of being swept away or capsized.
The presence of hidden tree stumps, logs, and fallen trees in the river also contributes to the danger. These obstacles can move during winter ice flows, changing the underwater landscape from one year to the next. The river's depth varies, with an average depth of around 5 feet, but it can reach deeper sections, especially near downed trees. The Wisconsin River is also known for its strong currents, large boulders, and other submerged debris, making it treacherous for those who are unaware of these risks.
While the river is generally calm, rapidly changing weather conditions and rising water levels can create dangerous situations for travellers and campers. The length of the river and its passage through multiple counties can make it challenging for emergency services to locate and assist those in need.
To ensure safety when using the river, it is recommended to follow certain precautions. These include wading in pairs, walking on the upstream end of sandbars, and avoiding hazards such as overhanging tree branches. Carrying a cell phone for emergency contact is advised, although cell service may not be available in all areas. Knowing the name of the last passed landing and the distance to the next one can help emergency dispatchers identify the location and send assistance.
While some consider the river's dangers to be overstated, it is important to acknowledge the risks associated with its changing nature and strong currents. Understanding these risks and taking appropriate precautions, such as wearing a life jacket, can make it safer to enjoy the river.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the Wisconsin River is polluted. Phosphorus pollution is a common issue in the river, which can lead to harmful algae blooms. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is working to address this issue and improve water quality.
Human activities are the main sources of pollution in the Wisconsin River. Industrial, municipal, and agricultural runoff all contribute to the high levels of nutrients and pollutants in the water. Sedimentation is also a significant issue, as it fills in important fish and wildlife habitats and transports pollutants like heavy metals and PCBs.
Yes, there are ongoing efforts to reduce pollution in the Wisconsin River. The River Alliance of WI works to prevent polluted runoff by advocating for phosphorus regulation and educating the public about water quality issues. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is also actively working to restore impaired waters and has added several rivers and waterways to its list of polluted waterways. Additionally, the bipartisan federal infrastructure law passed in 2021 includes funding for accelerating the cleanup of polluted places in the Great Lakes, including four sites in Wisconsin.
