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Protect What You Love:  CLEAN WATER!

Our story began in 1995 with one person’s dream for one river. Nearly 30 years later, that vision has grown to include all three Milwaukee rivers — and the thousands of people who stand with us to make them healthy and vibrant for everyone.

Each year, our Milwaukee River Basin Report Card shines a light on both the progress we’ve made and the challenges we still face. The report breaks down water quality trends across the Basin, explains what the data tells us, and shows how our rivers are changing over time.

Key Highlights:

• Community Science in Action: Our incredible volunteers contributed more than 1,326 hours collecting water quality data. This report wouldn’t exist without their dedication.
• Trends & Insights: We’re seeing ongoing challenges with phosphorus and bacteria levels, and the impacts of drought-like conditions juxtaposed with intense rainfall events.
• Your Voice Matters: Staying informed and engaged is the key to real change. Together, we can tackle the complex issues facing our rivers. Stay up to date on our emerging issues. Learn More →
• Get Involved: Interested in helping to collect this critical data? Join the monitoring team. Learn More →

Dive In!

Special Note:  Grading Changes

• We no longer measure fecal coliform when grading bacteria, as E. coli is a stronger indicator of pollution tied to runoff or failing infrastructure.
• We’ve adjusted our conductivity targets to better reflect the characteristics of a healthy stream based on our local geology and guidance from SEWRPC and the Wisconsin DNR.