The timing of diversions from and discharges to waterways may increase water level fluctuations in some waterways and lakes beyond what would naturally be expected. Diversion of water from a stream may temporarily reduce downstream flows, possibly increasing temperatures and reducing suitable habitat for existing aquatic life. Increased use and storage of water in cranberry operations located upstream of managed wildlife areas may decrease water supplies to associated waterfowl impoundments. As the demands for a limited water supply increase for multiple users, conflicts have begun to arise. Cranberry growers have worked to improve water use efficiency through management and technological advances, especially with sprinkler systems.
Some growers also recycle and reuse water.
The public and other industries have expressed concerns over reservoir management flooding adjacent properties. Since water diversion laws are not applicable to cranberry operations, dams are not regulated by the WDNR and cranberry growers work directly with neighbors to address these concerns. Creation of reservoirs often necessitates the construction of dams on natural streams. These dams may impede fish migration to spawning areas, thus reducing reproductive success of certain species of fish. Historically, wetlands were lost when cranberry beds, ditches, dikes and roads replaced natural sedge meadows, bogs and shrub and forested swamps.