The Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin, a Milwaukee-based initiative, has committed $4.2 million to support water education and water research programs across all 13 Universities of Wisconsin system campuses.
The funding supports 19 projects for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. These projects focus on increasing research and training opportunities for high school, undergraduate and graduate students while addressing “Wisconsin’s biggest water challenges,” according to the Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin’s Thursday announcement.
“The Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin shows the power of our universities when we come together to address Wisconsin’s needs,” Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman said. “By expanding water-related degree programs and providing students with professional training opportunities, our universities are preparing future leaders while also strengthening Wisconsin’s economy, protecting our natural resources, and serving communities and industries throughout our state.”