Protecting Our Most Valuable Resource, Water

Public Notification **Update** March 27, 2026

NEW Water has determined that the colored wastewater observed this week is likely attributable to an industrial user discharging a dye-containing carwash product into the sanitary sewer system. NEW Water is actively working with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and continues to coordinate directly with the industry involved. While the color may be visible in the waterways, this event has not disrupted NEW Water’s wastewater operations or service to the community.

Learn more about what’s happening at the De Pere Facility >>

March 24, 2026

On the morning of March 24, colored wastewater was detected being discharged to NEW Water’s De Pere Facility and, despite all wastewater being fully treated, the color is visible in the Fox River. NEW Water is currently working with wastewater partners which discharge into this Facility to determine the cause. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has been notified. Wastewater facilities like NEW Water are not designed to remove dyes. Service to the community has not been disrupted.