AGP Executive Report

Federal Forest Policy Fight: The Trump administration’s proposed repeal of the 2001 Roadless Rule could open millions of acres of national forests to new road building, including protected areas in the Midwest—raising alarms from backcountry users who fear losing quiet, wildlife habitat, and solitude. Great Lakes Cleanup: Volunteers helped remove hundreds of pounds of trash from Wisconsin Point, with collected data feeding Great Lakes Alliance research to push better trash policy. Data Center Debate: A new Wisconsin Policy Forum report says data centers could boost peak electricity demand by up to 30%, while incentives may shift costs and benefits between utilities, local governments, and residents. Local Environment Actions: Chippewa County is hosting a free hazardous waste Clean Sweep, and Ojibwe leaders gathered on Madeline Island to commemorate the 1854 Treaty of 1854 and discuss rights tied to the Great Lakes. Weather Watch: Southeast Wisconsin braces for 1–2 inches of rain, while Milwaukee and much of the state see sunny, mild conditions with patchy frost possible inland.

Data Centers Watch: A new Wisconsin Policy Forum report puts numbers on the state’s data center boom, warning peak electricity demand could jump up to 30% and potentially push utility rates—while noting tax incentives may help data centers and local governments could gain property-tax base. Indigenous Rights & History: Ojibwe leaders gathered on Madeline Island to commemorate the 1854 Treaty, calling for “courage” and renewed attention to treaty rights. Pipeline & Groundwater: Enbridge’s Line 5 reroute project hit another setback after crews breached an aquifer near the Marengo River, prompting DNR involvement and raising fresh concerns from tribal environmental advocates. Farm Disaster Aid: USDA is offering low-interest physical loss loans for Midwest natural-disaster impacts, with an April 26 deadline for applications. Energy Bills Help: Wisconsin is now accepting WHEAP applications for the heating season, with average benefits projected at $441 (heating) and $257 (electric). Conservation on the Ground: Foxhead Regenerative Agriculture Project named a new executive director as it continues work to protect farmland and strengthen the local food system. Outdoor Learning: A nature-based playscape and restored prairie habitat opened at the Duneside Discovery Center through local school and nonprofit partners.

Great Lakes Restoration: The Senate passed the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2026, a results-driven push to protect the Great Lakes through pollution cleanup, habitat restoration, and invasive species control. Local Learning: Marinette County’s annual Environmental Field Days brought hundreds of fourth graders to hands-on stations on water quality, invasive species, composting, forestry, and wildfire control. Energy & Climate Policy: Wisconsin DOJ is challenging EPA rollbacks tied to power-plant pollution limits, as states and cities continue suing over weakened emissions rules. Data Centers & Nature: Microsoft is expanding “biomimicry” landscaping at data center sites, using nature-based design to reduce environmental friction like tree loss and habitat impacts. Extreme Cold Prep: Waukesha opened a new warming center at St. Matthias Church for dangerously cold nights, after years of local criticism. Wildlife & Water: Ojibwe leaders commemorated the 1854 Treaty at Madeline Island, highlighting treaty rights and ongoing connections to Lake Superior. Wisconsin Weather: SE Wisconsin is seeing a mostly sunny, cool stretch with patchy frost possible in low areas.

Wildlife & Habitat: After more than seven decades without nesting in Green Bay, piping plovers are back—breeding pairs now raising chicks around the bay, including on dredged-material islands created for habitat. Water Protection: A new map flags which U.S. rivers need urgent protection as only a small share are in good condition, with climate and water-use pressures squeezing river life. Energy & Environment: Enbridge’s Line 5 re-route work near Marengo triggered an aquifer breach, with officials focused on water quantity concerns and monitoring/containment underway. Climate Policy Fight: States and cities sued the Trump administration over the rollback of power-plant emissions limits, arguing the move guts major climate protections. Local Enforcement & Safety: Middleton police cited an e-moto rider, using the case to clarify rules that treat e-motos differently from e-bikes. Conservation Controversy: An independent researcher says synthetic hatchery pond liners may be skewing walleye sex ratios, potentially undermining stocking efforts. Human-Wildlife Conflict: Wisconsin DNR confirmed nine wolves were euthanized in Price County after escalating threats to human safety.

Energy Assistance & Winter Protections: Minnesota Power is reminding customers about the Cold Weather Rule and the Energy Assistance Program, plus its On Track plan to help pay down past-due balances and avoid disconnection. Local Emergency Response: Waukesha County partners are launching an Extreme Weather Warming Center for adults during severe cold, with supervised overnight space, food, and connections to services. Clean Energy & Land Use Fight: Kenosha County officials oppose a proposed 200-megawatt battery storage facility in Wheatland, citing fire safety, emergency response, environmental impacts, and agricultural land concerns. Public Safety Tech: Waukesha’s Communications Center is using an AI-assisted call-handling system to route and triage non-emergency calls more efficiently. Drought Impacts on Farms: Wisconsin farmers report yield drops in moderate-to-severe drought areas, with sandier, un-irrigated fields hit hardest. Weather Watch: Milwaukee’s rain is ending overnight, with a mostly sunny, breezy fall weekend ahead.

Climate & Courts: Wisconsin’s DOJ joined a 25-state, city, and county coalition suing the Trump administration over EPA’s repeal of greenhouse gas limits for coal and gas power plants, arguing it will worsen extreme heat, storms, flooding, and wildfire smoke. Energy Infrastructure: A Town of Beloit resolution opposing a proposed $1.2B high-voltage transmission line is set to be part of “A Day of Power” in Madison on Oct. 13, when local governments deliver dozens of anti-line votes to state lawmakers. Severe Weather: Southern Wisconsin faces isolated flash-flood risk from morning rain, while Milwaukee’s rain is expected to end late tonight with cooler, possibly frosty conditions ahead. Home Energy Help: Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) applications are now open, targeting about 170,000 households with bill relief plus crisis and repair support. Local Environment & Community: Milwaukee’s fall leaf collection starts Oct. 1, with an optional paper bag curbside option to help keep leaves out of storm sewers. Wildlife Restoration: Lake sturgeon were released into the Saginaw River system as part of efforts to restore the population.

Flooding & Storm Prep: Milwaukee is moving to reduce flooding during heavy rain, with a new flood emergency plan and a Public Works protocol aimed at clearing drains, tracking known hotspots, and responding faster as southeast Wisconsin faces another wet stretch. Weather Watch: The National Weather Service warns of around an inch of rain in some areas with ponding possible, while another round of rain is expected to taper off into a drier weekend. Public Health: Wisconsin health officials urge updated flu and COVID shots (plus RSV for older adults and pregnant women) as respiratory virus season approaches. Wildlife & Land Use: A Wisconsin DNR update highlights risks around moving endangered ribbon snakes tied to a highway project, and a reader pushback urges keeping the national forest roadless rule intact. Community & Environment: Koats for Kids is in its final week in Madison, and local groups are also preparing for fall events like Pumpkin Trains in the Dells.

Great Lakes Protection: Gov. Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Administration announced $1.3 million in coastal grants to help resilient communities and protect Great Lakes resources, with applications for the next round now open. Wildlife Health Watch: Wisconsin confirmed epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) in dairy cattle in Waukesha County after a major deer outbreak, with officials stressing it doesn’t pose a threat to people. Data Center Debate in Milwaukee: A Milwaukee Plan Commission committee unanimously approved a one-year pause on new data center development, reflecting growing local concerns about environmental impact and growth. Coastal Heritage Spotlight: A new report highlights the Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary and its Lake Michigan buoys, tied to protecting maritime history. Public Input on Roads: WisDOT will hold a public meeting in Platteville on Highway 151 intersection improvements, including a planned change from a two-way stop to right-in/right-out traffic flow. Health Alerts: Marathon County reported two more measles cases, bringing its total to five, while officials monitor for possible exposures. Weather: Milwaukee is bracing for a wet stretch with rain returning overnight and heavier totals possible into Thursday.

PFAS Watch: Wisconsin wrapped up its first-ever PFAS awareness week, with Gov. Tony Evers stressing continued work to keep public water systems and private wells clean from “forever chemicals.” Water & Weather: Southeast Wisconsin braces for rounds of rain through Thursday, with 1–3 inches possible and the heaviest totals south of I-94. Wildlife Health: Avian flu is resurging, with Minnesota leading new cases; Wisconsin reported one commercial flock affected. Local Land Use: A public hearing is set for Oct. 6 on a wetland disturbance permit for the proposed Breck athletic complex in Big Bend, where residents have raised environmental concerns. Energy Costs: Wisconsin Public Service customers pushed back on a proposed 15% rate increase at a hearing in Green Bay. Clean Air/Noise & Tech: States including Wisconsin sued the FAA over its environmental review for expanded commercial drone delivery rules. Community & Reuse: A West Allis art-resale shop is building a more sustainable local culture by selling pre-loved supplies and hosting classes.

Invasive Species & Great Lakes: U.S. Senate Democrats, including Wisconsin Sen. Tammy Baldwin, are pressing the Trump administration to end delays on the Brandon Road invasive carp barrier after silver carp were found far north of Lake Michigan—raising alarms for native fish and the regional economy. Local Water Protection: In Lodi, UW researchers are partnering with Okee residents to protect Spring Creek and Okee Bay from pollution, invasive species, and changing conditions. Wildlife Health: Wisconsin confirmed epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) in Waukesha County dairy cattle after the virus was also detected in deer, with officials reminding farmers to report suspected cases. Energy & Rates: Gov. Evers honored Wisconsin “Energy Efficiency Champions,” including Kwik Trip, as the state pushes efficiency gains. Data Centers: Milwaukee’s Plan Commission advanced a up-to-12-month moratorium on new data center development while it drafts tighter zoning rules. Food Waste: The DNR is urging residents to cut food waste during Food Waste Prevention Week to save money and reduce landfill methane. Weather: Milwaukee braces for rain after 9–10 p.m., with heavier wet weather possible midweek.

Great Lakes & Water Watch: Wisconsin DNR is tracking drought impacts as northwest counties hit “exceptional” dryness, with low river levels raising risks for wildlife and even hidden hazards for paddlers. Local Conservation & Outdoor Access: Forward Outdoor is extending the Milwaukee River paddling season with Fall Colors & Salmon Run Kayaking, pairing scenic trips with the chance to see salmon migration. Community Food Security: Tuesday is Go Orange Day in Wisconsin, spotlighting rising hunger; organizers say Dane County has one in eight people experiencing hunger and encourage volunteering or food drives. PFAS & Water Infrastructure: Eau Claire County officials say PFAS is being treated by a removal facility, as Illinois also releases a PFAS strategy. Public Lands & Biodiversity: A bioblitz at Lakeshore Nature Preserve uses citizen science to document local biodiversity. Wildlife & Weather: A rainy midweek pattern is expected across much of southeast Wisconsin, with 1–2 inches possible and cooler, drier conditions returning for the weekend. Local Governance & Privacy: Slinger residents are demanding removal of Flock surveillance cameras, calling them unconstitutional. Education & Community Support: Milwaukee Public Schools’ Adopt-a-School program expands its second year, citing improved attendance and fewer behavior referrals.

PFAS Cleanup in Eau Claire: The city says its PFAS “forever chemicals” removal facility is now operating, meeting and exceeding EPA standards after the project came in around $23.5M of a $25M plan. Public Transit Funding: Milwaukee County Board Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson-Bovell urged Wisconsin’s congressional delegation to protect federal transit dollars, warning proposed cuts could cost the state at least $17M annually. Shoreline Stewardship: Wisconsin DNR is promoting its Score My Shore tool to help lake and river property owners improve runoff control and native habitat. Food Waste Push: DNR is encouraging residents to cut food waste during Food Waste Prevention Week, citing Wisconsin landfill impacts and methane emissions. Neonatal Care Access: Aspirus expanded neonatal transport options for preterm babies across rural Wisconsin and nearby regions, using specialized flight and ground teams. Biodiversity Citizen Science: UW Lakeshore Nature Preserve hosted a Bioblitz using iNaturalist to document species across 300 acres. Rural Mental Health: DHS is expanding suicide prevention partnerships with Aspirus and CALM America, with added training for rural outreach. Wildlife & Culture: Forest County Potawatomi held a birchbark canoe gathering, highlighting climate-linked challenges to sourcing traditional materials. Weather Watch: Dense fog overnight, then rain Tuesday night into midweek, with a cooler, drier weekend after.

Conservation in the Northwoods: Wisconsin DNR is moving ahead with a $1.6 million conservation easement on nearly 1,800 acres in Langlade County, using federal and state funds plus a donation from the Ice Age Trail Alliance to protect forest land and support the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Energy & environment: Construction continues on Enbridge’s Line 5 Wisconsin Segment Relocation Project, with crews emphasizing environmental protections and safety around roads and water crossings. Water, weather, and risk: Southeast Wisconsin is enjoying “back to the 70s” conditions before rain returns midweek, while the Twin Cities face dense fog early Monday and a multi-day rain threat that could bring localized flooding in western Wisconsin. PFAS and AI infrastructure: A new report highlights how data centers are shifting cooling methods and how PFAS-linked cooling chemicals are entering the debate as AI demand grows. Public lands and tourism: The Apostle Islands’ future is in the spotlight as a federal proposal would redesignate the national lakeshore, drawing opposition from local governments and the Red Cliff Band. Community health: Antigo residents are pushing to keep a local school pool open after sudden closures and funding disputes.

Great Lakes & Water Quality: Green Lake County advanced a resolution recognizing Big Green Lake’s economic impact, tying clean-water protection to jobs, property values, and county planning. Wildlife Restoration: Wisconsin-raised lake sturgeon continue to be released into the Flint River as part of a broader Great Lakes recovery effort. Air & Climate Watch: Denver logged one of its worst ozone summers in about 30 years, a reminder of how hot, sunny weather can drive harmful ground-level ozone. Local Weather: Southern Wisconsin stays dry and mild Monday, with rain chances returning Tuesday night into midweek. Environment + Food/Health Research: A new study links infant gut microbes and diet-derived metabolites to childhood asthma risk, pointing to a possible gut-to-airway pathway. Energy & Pollution Risk: A federal report estimates an Enbridge Line 5 gas leak in northern Wisconsin could cost at least $15.1 million, including remediation and lost product. Public Lands & Outdoor Life: Wisconsin hunter education graduates can hunt small game for free during their first season, and a new bird-language course is set to run in the fall.

Climate & Resilience: A University of Wisconsin-Madison researcher highlights how wildfire risk is already hitting homeowners hard, with Colorado showing how underinsurance can leave families unable to rebuild after disasters. Pollution & Plastics: A Great Lakes plastic-waste investigation is pushing a new push toward flax-based, plastics-free alternatives that could cut microplastic shedding from everyday laundry. Energy & Infrastructure: Oracle says it will delay rent payments for a New Mexico data center, citing force majeure tied to local opposition—another sign that power and permitting fights are reshaping the AI buildout. Local Conservation Win: Wisconsin’s Cat Island story shows how dredged harbor sediment can help shorebirds rebound, with piping plover chicks fledging after restoration. Community & Food Systems: A new Madison farm market model is helping small growers sell more consistently by using consignment and higher returns than traditional retail. Outdoor Safety: First-time Wisconsin hunter-education graduates can hunt small game for free during their first season, with key rules for waterfowl stamps and HIP registration. Weather: Southeast Wisconsin stays dry and mild for now, with rain chances building late Tuesday into midweek.

Weather & Climate Impact: A nor’easter has delayed MLB games on the East Coast, including a Phillies–Rays matchup, and it’s also forced the Cubs–Red Sox finale to shift from Fenway to Tropicana Field—another reminder that extreme weather can disrupt schedules and travel. Public Lands & Conservation: Wisconsin marked the anniversary of the Apostle Islands becoming the state’s first national lakeshore, with proposed legislation aiming to upgrade it to an Apostle Islands National Park and Preserve. Community & Local Food: Thousands packed Madison’s Cheese Fair Off the Square, featuring a new Born To Dairy Milk Bar and a big push to spotlight Wisconsin dairy farmers. Health & Disaster Response: Direct Relief reported major medical shipments as Hurricane Nolo threatens Hawaii with heavy rain and flooding risk. Education & Environment-Adjacent Work: Wisconsin DNR encouraged residents to enjoy public lands for National Public Lands Day, while other local coverage highlighted community programs and events tied to outdoor learning. Local Governance: Four Wisconsin governor/AG candidates met county officials to discuss how they’d work with local governments—setting the stage for how state policy could affect environmental and infrastructure priorities.