Proposed WOTUS Rule Brings Certainty to Farmers

Farmers need rules that clearly define federal jurisdiction of Waters of the United States (WOTUS). The American Farm Bureau Federation today submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers, detailing the impact WOTUS has on farmers and elements that must be included in the new proposed rule to ensure it can withstand future legal challenges.

“Farmers and ranchers support the creation of a legally durable rule that injects clarity into the regulatory process and does not leave landowners guessing what parts of their property are subject to regulation,” wrote John Newton, vice president of public policy and economic analysis...

Proposed WOTUS Rule Protects Environment, Respects Farmers

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers’ proposed Waters of the United States rule.

“Clean water is a top priority for farmers and ranchers – we depend on it. We are pleased that the new rule protects critical water sources while respecting the efforts of farmers to protect the natural resources they’ve been entrusted with...

NCBA Secures New WOTUS Proposed Rule that Protects Family Farmers and Ranchers

Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced support for the new proposed Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule released by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The revised WOTUS rule comes after decades of advocacy by NCBA and our state affiliate partners to remove confusing and burdensome regulations on cattle farmers and ranchers.

“Waters of the U.S. has been a longstanding and frustrating issue for family farmers and ranchers. Every few years, the definition of a ‘water of the U.S.’ has changed. Often, this meant that small water features like prairie potholes or dry ditches suddenly fell under federal regulation,” said NCBA...