Standing up for global warming solutions 

Wisconsin Environment releases new report

To build support for global warming solutions, Wisconsin Environment released a new report, “An Unfamiliar State, How Global Warming Could Change Natural Wisconsin.” The report is a comprehensive review of the latest science on the current and predicted impacts of global warming and the effect they may have on Wisconsin’s farms, forests, waterways and natural recreation. 

“Global warming threatens so many things that make Wisconsin great,” stated Dan Kohler, Wisconsin Environment director. “Our dairy farms, our majestic forests, our cherished lakes and streams, our unparalleled recreational opportunities; none of these defining characteristics of our state are immune to global warming.” 

“Climate change’s impacts are already occurring in Wisconsin,” stated Dr. John Magnuson, UW Madison Emeritus Professor of Zoology and Limnology. “The reduction of ice cover on lakes is a visible signal of warming, especially during the last 35 years.” 

John Vrieze, president of the Wisconsin Dairy Business Association and member of Gov. Doyle’s Global Warming Task Force offered his concern: “With potential impacts to our environment caused by global warming, we’ll have to deal with growing numbers and species of insects and other pests, increased energy use to keep our cows cool and comfortable, and a change in our cropping practices.”
Wisconsin Environment is calling on Gov. Doyle and the state Legislature to join other states such as California, Minnesota, New Jersey and Hawaii in adopting measures that would reduce global warming emissions in line with what scientists say is necessary to avoid the worst effects of the problem.

We’re calling on decision-makers to support the Wisconsin Safe Climate Act to reduce global warming pollution in Wisconsin. A broad coalition of conservation, faith, civic, labor, farm and public health organizations support the legislation and more groups continue to get involved.

Global warming threatens many Wisconsin industries, including dairy farming.