05/20/2026
City of De Pere Recognized Nationally for Excellence in Snow & Ice Operations
The City of De Pere’s Department of Public Works (DPW) was recently awarded the American Public Works Association (APWA) National “Excellence in Snow and Ice Control” Award in Cleveland at the National APWA Snow Conference.
De Pere has continued to advance one of Wisconsin’s most proactive and data driven snow and ice control programs, serving more than 25,410 residents with a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.
The city’s fleet includes modern single axle and tandem plow trucks, loaders, a grader, and specialized anti icing equipment allowing the application of salt brine via spray bar along with rock salt. Recent investments in Force America 6100 plow and spreader controls, pavement temperature sensors, and a tandem plow with a 1,400 gallon liquid system that significantly reduces rock salt usage. All equipment is calibrated before the season and after any system repair that would affect calibration to ensure accurate, environmentally responsible application of salt/brine.
In 2023, De Pere implemented Precise AVL/GPS technology across its fleet, providing real time tracking of plow positions, material usage, pavement conditions, and equipment status. Dash mounted cameras added in 2025 offer visual verification of storm conditions, improving decision making and post storm analysis.
DPW places a strong emphasis on employee training and public education. Annual winter training, dry runs, operator workshops, state and national conferences, and an in house, new hire, hands on caster wheel plow training ensure operators are well prepared for any winter event. The city also engages the public through educational videos, local media interviews, and popular events such as the Big Rig Gig and Public Works Pals.
Environmental protection remains a key priority being seated on the Fox River/Lake Michigan. Our team has attended training with Wisconsin Salt Wise to understand the importance of smart salting. Crews are trained to mechanically remove as much snow as possible before applying material, using brine and calibrated application rates to minimize salt use. Detailed snow and ice reports are completed after every event, and the city maintains close communication with the National Weather Service throughout storms.
Following each significant winter weather event, the department conducts an after action review to evaluate performance and identify improvements.
De Pere’s leadership also places strong value on employee morale and teamwork, providing healthy food during storms, hosting team building events, and maintaining an on site fitness center for all staff.
“Through strategic planning, modern equipment, strong training programs, and a culture of continuous improvement, we continue to deliver safe, efficient, and sustainable winter road operations for our community”. Tony Fietzer, Street Superintendent.
