MADISON, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 9, 2004--Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle's call for new groundwat...

1. Great Lakes & Groundwater: Tips To Protect Precious
Waters in Wisconsin
MADISON, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 9, 2004--Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle's call for new
groundwater legislation by Earth Day 2004 (April 22) is an opportunity for Wisconsin residents to
learn more about groundwater and what they can do to protect it. Misconceptions decorative barrels
about where water comes from, increasing demand and disregard about where water goes after it's
been used pose a serious threat to the future of Wisconsin's precious water resources.
Groundwater not only provides drinking decorative barrels water for more than 75 percent of our
population, it sustains human life, maintains water levels of lakes, rivers and wetlands that provide
important food and shelter for wildlife, and ensures recreational opportunities.
The region is using groundwater faster than nature
can replenish it. We all have a responsibility to
protect and conserve our groundwater - not for a
single interest, but for our families, wildlife and for
the future.
Conserving groundwater and preserving its quality
are two goals everyone can strive to accomplish.
Environmental groups Biodiversity Project and Clean
Wisconsin offer simple tips to make a difference
today:
-- Conserve, conserve, conserve. Save precious groundwater by limiting the amount you use. Water
lawns sparingly, fill dishwashers and laundry machines fully before running loads and limit running
taps without usage.

2. -- Take an active role. Learn about where your water comes from - is it groundwater or surface
water? Attend public hearings and let legislators know that water issues are important to you. Visit
www.cleanwisconsin.org for frequent groundwater legislation updates.
-- Don't buy bottled water. Reusable water bottles save money and discourage the destruction of
groundwater resources that result from corporations pumping publicly-owned groundwater for
profit.
-- Direct home downspouts toward the lawn or a rain barrel, not the pavement. Rainwater is a great
choice for plants since it's free and unchlorinated. Rain barrels come in a variety of sizes with lids to
prevent mosquitoes and are easy to use.

3. -- Protect public green space. Parks, lawns and other unpaved urban areas allow rain and snow melt
to soak into the earth. These "green spaces" not only beautify our communities, they help recharge
our groundwater supply.
EDITOR NOTE: Press materials, images available at www.biodiversityproject.org. Clean Wisconsin's
video documentary "Water Above, Water Below" available upon request.
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ct-Precious-Waters