Getting it right the first time.

In 2000 the federal EPA published new regulations on radium levels in drinking water. Because a layer of shale in Waukesha’s deep aquifer prevents the groundwater supply from adequately recharging, contaminants that naturally increase as levels drop were impacting the quality of the city’s drinking water.

Local leaders had understood for decades that a new, more sustainable source of water needed to be identified. Now, the situation took on a heightened sense of urgency.

After years spent studying more than a dozen alternatives, it was determined that the only reasonable solution – for both the environment and for Waukesha – is to borrow water from Lake Michigan, then return it as clean water via the Root River.

In June of 2016, the eight Governors and two Premiers entrusted with stewardship of the Great Lakes basin agreed: Waukesha’s application was unanimously approved.

As the first city in the country to be granted an approval the Great Lakes Compact, we understand that we have a responsibility to our citizens, the environment, and our partner communities.

We intent to get it right.