High-capacity wells that have been linked to lower surface water are the source of water for irrigation systems like this one watering a cornfield in Waushara County.

In spite of court decisions that require the Department of Natural Resources to manage the waters of Wisconsin for the mutual benefit of all users in accordance with the state constitution, DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp chooses not to do so. She relies on a nonbinding opinion by Republican Attorney General Brad Schimel rather than following the constitution, the courts, and the broad statutory authority granted her department by the Legislature.

"I am baffled and hugely disappointed that current Republicans who control state government would so openly fail their oath to uphold the constitution of the state of Wisconsin."