Manure is being applied via an irrigation system using a traveling gun and reel.(Photo: Courtesy Wisconsin Manure Irrigation Work, Wisconsin State Farmer Wisconsin Manure Irrigation Work)

The problem is that direct discharge into streams rarely happens, but manure and water can still enter the state’s waters via farm runoff and groundwater.

Take Kewaunee County, home to nearly 100,000 cows, where residents have for years struggled with polluted wells and manure runoff.

Kewaunee County Supervisor Lee Luft told the Journal Sentinel that while the dairy association’s press statement dealt with managing rainwater, the larger issue is the group’s contention that large farms in most cases would not be required to obtain a wastewater permit.