The American Farm Bureau Federation expressed support for the Environmental Protection Agency’s and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ proposed Waters of the U.S. rule, saying the proposal would provide farmers with greater clarity about federal jurisdiction over their land.
Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall said the proposal respects farmers’ ability to responsibly use their land while aligning federal regulations with the framework established by the U.S. Supreme Court’s Sackett ruling.
The organization said clear definitions of federal jurisdiction are important for farmers who could face significant penalties, including potential jail time, for unknowingly violating the law.
Farm Bureau is continuing to review the details of the proposed rule and said it hopes the measure will provide a durable regulatory framework. The organization also emphasized the importance of protecting the nation’s water resources while providing farmers with clear and consistent rules.
The proposed rule comes after years of changes to federal regulations governing which waterways and wetlands fall under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act. Farm Bureau said a lasting framework would help provide farmers with greater regulatory certainty as they manage their operations.
Source: American Farm Bureau Federation, "New WOTUS Rule Provides Certainty for Farmers"