Newsroom_News Release_2024-10-01 DNR Celebrates 50th Anniversary Of Safe Drinking Water Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 2024-10-01

Contact: DNR Office of Communications
DNRPress@wisconsin.gov

DNR Celebrates 50th Anniversary Of Safe Drinking Water Act

A glass of drinking water is held up to the camera by a girl. The Safe Drinking Water Act, passed in 1974, has ensured that communities have access to clean, safe drinking water. Photo credit: iStock/Sasiistock

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) joins the nation in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act, landmark legislation protecting public health and safeguarding our nation’s drinking water.  

Since its passage in 1974, the Act has ensured that communities nationwide have access to clean, safe drinking water. On a state level, the DNR has worked tirelessly to implement and enforce the act, resulting in:

  • Consistent compliance rates above 99% for community water systems, demonstrating Wisconsin’s commitment to providing safe drinking water.
  • Reduction of contaminants like nitrate, radium, cryptosporidium and over 90 other contaminants in drinking water that often affect vulnerable populations.
  • Protection of groundwater resources through robust well-construction standards, ensuring the long-term sustainability of Wisconsin's aquifers.
  • Staying ahead of the curve in safeguarding public health by collaborating with local governments and water utilities to address emerging contaminants like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
  • Investment in water infrastructure, including funding for water system upgrades and lead service line replacements, to ensure the continued safety and reliability of our drinking water.

“Wisconsin has a proud history of prioritizing clean drinking water, and the Safe Drinking Water Act has been instrumental in our efforts,” said DNR Deputy Secretary Steven Little. “As we celebrate this anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every Wisconsinite has access to safe drinking water.”

Wisconsin has emerged as a national leader in protecting its water resources with proactive measures that set a high standard for other states to follow. The DNR will continue to work with stakeholders to address evolving challenges and protect Wisconsin’s precious water resources for future generations.

The Safe Drinking Water Act makes water data public. Visit the DNR’s drinking water webpage for local data and to learn how to get your private well tested.