Wisconsin Launches PFAS Water Testing Grant Programs
The state is offering new funding to help municipalities and private well owners test for chemical contamination.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Utilities
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Wisconsin has officially launched the PFAS Community Grants Sampling Program and the Wisconsin PFAS Private Well Testing program. These initiatives utilize a $125 million trust fund to help address water safety concerns across the state.
Why it matters
The programs aim to assist local communities and residents in identifying potential PFAS contamination in public and private water supplies. This action follows a recent legislative agreement on how to distribute state funds earmarked for chemical testing.
The state has established a $125 million PFAS Trust Fund to support these testing initiatives. Applications for Cycle A of the community grant program will remain open for approximately six months.
The players
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
This state agency is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the new PFAS grant and testing programs.
Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene
This laboratory serves as the state public health lab and is responsible for processing water samples collected by residents.
The details
Municipalities, including cities, towns, and Tribal governing bodies, can design their own sampling strategies based on local priorities. Meanwhile, eligible private well owners will receive testing kits from the Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene to collect and return samples.
Timeline
Several years ago, the state budget first allocated funding for PFAS testing.
Earlier this year, the Governor and lawmakers reached an agreement on spending rules.
On October 20, 2026, Wisconsin officially launched the two testing programs.
The DNR will accept applications for Cycle A of the grant program for approximately six months.
Market Landscape
These grant programs represent the operational phase of the state's long-term plan to address chemical contamination in public and private utilities. This rollout shifts responsibility to local jurisdictions while utilizing state-wide infrastructure to standardize testing protocols.
Residents with private wells may now access state-provided testing kits to identify potential PFAS contamination in their water supply. Municipalities can also apply for grants to alleviate the costs associated with testing public water sources.
The takeaway
Property owners concerned about water safety should review the state's new testing guidelines to determine their eligibility for the grant programs. Keeping current with state testing windows ensures residents can utilize these resources while funds remain available.
Further reading
For more information on utility management and infrastructure, visit Wisconsin Utilities.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WXPR.
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Do you believe your local government should prioritize proactive testing for contaminants in community drinking water?
