Fostering the preservation of Door County's natural resources through advocacy, education & action.
The future of clean water in Door County is at risk.
Beach closures and bacteria levels are on the rise. The Door County Environmental Council is committed to protecting the waters of Green Bay so that generations to come can enjoy what makes Door County special.
But we need your help.
Concerned Citizens for Responsible Agriculture
Annette Vincent
708-917-1274
Rod Miller
972-679-6332
In-Person DNR Public Hearing Scheduled for November 5th, 2025 10AM
STURGEON BAY, WI — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has confirmed what more than 300 Door County residents demanded: an in-person public hearing on the proposed Gilbert Farms Confined Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) permit. This marks the first time since 2020 that the DNR has granted an in-person hearing for a CAFO permit, and it’s happening because the people of Door County refused to be silent.
“This is what community power looks like,” said Rod Miller. “Hundreds of residents stood up and said that decisions about our water, our farms, and our future must include those who live here—and the DNR listened.”
Gilbert Farms’ expansion would bring yet another massive CAFO to one of the most hydrologically sensitive areas in Wisconsin. Door County’s fragile karst landscape, where water moves quickly from surface to groundwater, is extremely vulnerable – one manure spill or lagoon failure could contaminate private wells and drinking water in a matter of hours. That’s not speculation—it’s experience. We’ve seen the same threats unfold in Kewaunee and neighboring counties where CAFO runoff has already compromised entire communities’ water supplies.
“For too long, virtual hearings have made it harder for rural people to fully participate,” said Annette Vincent. “This in-person hearing is more than a scheduling decision—it’s a victory for democracy. It’s proof that when communities organize around what matters most, we can shift the system.”
Door County’s landscape and identity are tied to clean water, a thriving tourism economy, property values, and a shared sense of place. Let’s fill the room with our voices and ensure the DNR hears clearly that Door County’s future depends on protecting its most vital resource: clean water. Every voice, every story, and every question helps shape the official record and reminds state officials that protecting water is protecting people.
Hearing Details:
Date: Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at 10 am
Location: Door County Gala, 1023 Egg Harbor Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
Format: Informational session followed by public testimony.
Virtual Participation:
To attend the hearing via Zoom, please register in advance at the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wDTDSExLTYabXIH2TJRgsQ
