The long dreaded redefinition of the word “navigable” as applied to “Waters of the U.S. is finally upon us. The deadline for comment is this coming Friday, November 14 at 11:59 p.m. The Washington DC Environmental Protection Agency office will be receiving phone calls at 202-566-2428 and emails at CWAwaters@epa.gov.
Claims of mud puddles, rain barrels, and seasonal drainage ditches falling under the rules and regulations of the federal government are not far-fetched. EPA has achieved the label of “mission creep” as it seeks to expand its jurisdiction over the nation’s waters. Not only are they confusing the term “navigable” but are seeking the science to claim connectivity between sub-surface aquifers, wetlands and free-flowing streams. In their eagerness to gain control over “all” of this water they have violated state and federal constitutions and over-reached or bypassed Congressional oversight.
Consequences would be extensive inflicting prohibitive economic costs onto private citizens and small businesses with ever more restrictions, ongoing inspections, monitoring, and reporting demands. Water management and storage may become limited or prohibited, impacting livestock and irrigation operations, leading to increased food costs. Use of chemicals and fertilizers will be restricted not only for farm/ranch operations, but also for landscaping.
All citizens will be impacted and need to take the time now to send in their comments opposing the proposed rule on “Definition of Waters of the United States Under the Clean Water Act,” Docket No. EPA-HQ-OW-2011-0880.
Clarice Ryan
Bigfork