Assembly Bill 882 aims to enhance local authority over water management in Wisconsin by allowing town boards to set maximum water elevations for artificial water bodies created by dams, particularly when such elevations lead to highway saturation. This new provision, found in the newly created section 82.03 (5) (ag), empowers towns to take proactive measures in managing water levels that affect local infrastructure. Additionally, the bill renumbers an existing section of the statutes to accommodate this change.

Furthermore, the bill amends section 88.90 (1) to clarify the conditions under which landowners can seek the removal of obstructions in natural watercourses. The amendment specifies that damages must be due to ground or surface water flooding caused by such obstructions, thereby refining the criteria for recourse against negligent actions that impede natural water flow. This legislative change aims to provide clearer guidelines for both town authorities and affected landowners in managing water-related issues.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 88.90(1), 88.90