Ag News
April 15 is deadline to comment on new Clean Water Rule
Posted on Apr 03, 2019 at 0:00 AM
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) have proposed a new definition of “waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS), which would clarify regulatory authority under the Clean Water Act. The new rule is part of the Trump administration's efforts to roll back the 2015 WOTUS rule that threatened to bring under federal jurisdiction nearly every kind of waterway imaginable - from rivers and streams to ditches and rainwater flows.
For years, Georgia Farm Bureau - along with like-minded groups, including the American Farm Bureau Federation - has worked to defeat the 2015 rule, and we are very close to succeeding in this important effort.
The new Clean Water Rule will bring much-needed clarity and regulatory certainty to farmers, and now is the time to show support for it. Numerous activist groups are expected to speak out forcefully in opposition to the new Clean Water Rule, while at the same time working hard to preserve the over-reaching 2015 WOTUS rule.
A strong showing from farmers and rural landowners is critical to ensure the new rule is finalized. To view the new rule visit www.regulations.gov/document?D=EPA-HQ-OW-2018-0149-0003
One of the best ways to make your voice heard is to submit a comment letter in support of the new rule. The EPA and Corps have published the new Clean Water Rule in the Federal Register and will be accepting public comments via an online portal until April 15.
For convenience, GFB's Public Policy Department has prepared a comment letter template. Feel free to use the letter in its current form or tailor the message to fit your specific needs by visiting https://gfb.ag/CleanH20comments.
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