AGNET WEST: New WOTUS Rule Proposal Brings Optimism

The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers have proposed a new draft of the Waters of the United State rule, known as the WOTUS rule, that seeks to clarify federal authority under the Clean Water Act.  The new proposal seeks to restore more authority to state and local governments and would remove federal jurisdiction over many ditches, and streams that only hold water when it rains.

“This welcome action from the EPA and Army Corps will help bring clarity to Clean Water Act regulations and help farmers know where federal jurisdiction begins and ends. President Trump is making good on his promise to reduce burdensome regulations to free our producers to do what they do best – feed, fuel, and clothe this nation and the world,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue.

Originally issued by the Obama Administration back in 2015, the WOTUS rule has created significant confusion as to what is and is not considered a water body falling under the jurisdiction of the federal government. The proposed update looks to establish national consistency compartmentalizing different water bodies such as navigable waterways and tributaries, ditches, lakes and ponds, impoundments and adjacent wetlands.

“Clear rules and clean water – that’s what the EPA should stand for, and today’s announcement marks a hopeful new chapter for farm country…I applaud this administration for listening to concerns raised by farmers and ranchers and their representatives in Congress. I am eager to see a rule that restores integrity to the regulatory process and supports American agriculture as it seeks to preserve our natural resources,” said House Agriculture Committee Chairman K. Michael Conaway.

Continue reading at AgNet West…

Photo Credit: Staff