The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact and the Waukesha Diversion Application

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 fresh water 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. Overall, Waukesha meets most of the requirements for a diversion of water from Lake Michigan by partially showing need for water, that water is for public use, the water would be returned to the source, and the city is following through on water conservation measures. The decision made