Translating Public Notices

In addition to providing timely and accurate public notices, water suppliers must address new "non-English speaking" requirements. If your system serves a population where 5% or more speak a language other than English, you are required to include basic information in that language.

This alternate language information does not need to be a complete translation, but it should include simple statements such as:

• "This report contains very important information about your drinking water. Translate is, or speak with someone who understands it."
• "Boil your water before using" or "Don't drink the water"
• "This water contains nitrate. Do not use the water for infant formula."
• Who consumers may contact for more information (the owner or operator of the water system, not DNR)

The translation of these statements is entirely the responsibility of the owner or operator of the water system, however a list of translation services and media resources for Hmong and Spanish in Wisconsin has been developed. Some charge a fee; others don't.

• Hmong Resources
• Spanish Resources

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has compiled a list of phrases translated in Spanish, French, Vietnamese, Chinese and Korean.

• Translated Phrases Document