Tiffany has disregarded what DNR wildlife scientists say when their research contradicts things his constituents tell him about whether hunting regulations are written in a way that helps them have success when they hunt.

The initiation of topics researched by Office of Applied Science is influenced more by DNR program managers than it was when the agency operated the science services bureau, but the final selection is reviewed by a central coordinator who consults with the DNR secretary before giving approval, said Scott Hull, who directs the office.

The fiscal bureau suggested that the budget committee could consider approving just two of the five researchers.

The bureau said the DNR had 30 or more PFAS research projects ready to go, but it might “be unable to accelerate its research agenda at a pace to fully avail itself of the (other three) positions immediately.”

However, Hull and others said the latest update of the DNR’s research agenda covering all of Evers’ priorities would be finalized by July 1, when the new state budget is supposed to take effect. The list of projects will easily exceed the ability of five additional researchers, Hull said.