MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Department of Natural Resources officials are firming up plans for streamlining the agency. Agency officials announced the reorganization effort in July to help cope with dwindling staff levels. Agency leaders finalized a list of recommendations this week that call for creating general permits for more activities and allowing permit applicants to design the permits, beginning with a pilot program involving air pollutants, and providing more assistance to contractors looking to develop wetlands. Other recommendations include consolidating recreational vehicle registration with the Division of Motor Vehicles; a voluntary vehicle fee at state parks and expanding camping to generate more revenue; and decommissioning the agency’s 72 remaining fire towers. The DNR next plans to solicit feedback from stakeholders and staff. The agency expects to approve a final plan by June 30.
