Milwaukee River Floodplains

SAVE THE DATE: The first in a series of Public Information Meetings will be held at Gordon Park Pavilion on Thursday, November 2, 2023. More details on times and registration coming soon!

Recent soil samples from the Milwaukee River floodplains indicate the presence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and heavy metals such as lead. The sampling area covers approximately four river miles on the east and west sides of the river between Estabrook Dam and the former North Avenue Dam. The floodplain is largely open to the public and contains walking trails as part of the Milwaukee River Greenway. Officials from federal, state, and local units of government are working together to ensure public health and safety and determine next steps for the ongoing river cleanup efforts.

Partner Lead: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Status: Planning

Outcome: Cleaned-up Waterways

More Information: Sediment Fact Sheet, Floodplains Cleanup Fact Sheet, Floodplains FAQs, Floodplains Sampling Fact Sheet

Public Meeting Recordings: Cleaning Up Our Toxic Legacy: Milwaukee River Greenway (May 9, 2022), Milwaukee River Floodplains & Your Health (December 13, 2021)