The goal of Central Sands Water Action Coalition (CSWAC) is to advance sustainable groundwater policies in a six-county region in Central Wisconsin, focusing on water quality, drinking water safety, and groundwater pumping (water quantity) issues.

The coalition was formed in response to the unmanaged proliferation and pumping of high capacity wells in the central sands, which have impacted the levels and flows of a growing number of lakes, streams and wetlands during average and modestly dry precipitation periods. (The current record precipitation levels have temporarily masked the long-term effects of pumping.) The vast majority of high capacity wells in the region are being used by the potato and vegetable industry which has been in a period of aggressive expansion. 

CSWAC in no way believes that groundwater pumping for economic purposes should be banned, but rather that the state needs to better manage pumping amounts consistent with maintaining healthy lakes and streams.

Since Governor Evers declared 2019 the “Year of Clean Drinking Water,” CSWAC has been actively supporting positive proposals and management solutions to groundwater pollution during the 2019-2020 legislative cycle, not only for the central sands region, but for the entire state.  We will continue to share information and advocate for good long-term solutions that address groundwater pollution issues.

CSWAC continues to focus on ways to create and foster sustainable practices that will protect both water quantity and water quality.