10-2-13 government shutdown-water research

MILWAUKEE (AP) — A federal agency that keeps tabs on water levels and water quality in Wisconsin is among those closed with the government shutdown.  The U.S. Geological Survey's Water Science Center in Middleton is responsible for equipment that monitors water flow and levels in rivers and streams throughout the state.  Acting Director John Walker said the equipment will keep collecting data and a staff person is on call in case of flooding or another emergency.  But Walker said late Monday that other work, such as the collection of samples to test for water quality, is being halted during the shutdown.  He says the center works with universities and municipalities and stopping its data collection could affect about 100 studies on water.