The scientists said the DNR was ignoring facts in a way that portrayed state government as anti-science.

“Rapid changes in climate are threatening public health, safety, and natural resources,” they said. “Failing to accurately inform the public about these threats and the opportunities to reduce them, violates the trust we place in our public institutions.”

On Friday, Stepp responded by saying the department continues to use the best science on how Wisconsin’s climate will change in coming decades as it makes decisions on the species of trees it plants and where it creates fishing access to cold-water trout streams.

The website was changed in response to demands made by a writer for a newspaper in northern Wisconsin who claims the causes of climate change are unproven, Stepp confirmed.

She said the website now reflects what the department’s position has been since Gov. Scott Walker appointed her in 2011.

While insisting that her personal view wasn’t relevant, Stepp said she believes there is still a significant scientific debate about the cause of climate change.

“I’ve read competing pieces so, yes, I would say there is debate out there,” Stepp said.