On October 20, 2026, Governor Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources announced the launch of two statewide grant programs that provide funding to help communities sample private wells and public water supplied for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination.
The new programs, known as the PFAS Community Grants Sampling Program and the Wisconsin PFAS Private Well Testing (WisPPWT) Program, were authorized by 2025 Wisconsin Acts 200 and 201. Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU) was proud to support the related bills during the 2025-26 legislative session. The grant programs are supported by $125 million in funding from the PFAS Trust Fund, which was established in the 2023-25 Biennial State Budget.
“PFAS contamination in our water is a major concern to Wisconsin’s farmers and rural communities,” WFU President Darin Von Ruden said. “These programs improve our understanding of PFAS contamination and empower communities and rural residents to address this pressing issue.”
Through the PFAS Community Grants Sampling Programs, municipalities may apply for funding and develop their own water sampling program. Private well owners/users, not located in a municipality pursuing a community grant, can receive an at-home sampling kit. Municipalities and private well owners/users who utilize these programs and find PFAS contamination may be able to also apply for remediation funding through the Well Compensation Grant Program.
WFU advocated for the passage of this legislation in collaboration with key stakeholders to help make sure rural Wisconsin has the resources and protections needed to address hazardous PFAs contamination.
Wisconsin Farmers Union, a member-driven organization, is committed to enhancing the quality of life for family farmers, rural communities, and all people through educational opportunities, cooperative endeavors, and civic engagement. For more information visit www.wisconsinfarmersunion.com.
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