EPA Announces Revisions to Waters of the U.S. Rule

March 12, 2025 - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin has announced a major revision to the definition of "Waters of the United States" (WOTUS), marking a significant shift in federal water regulation. The agency, in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, aims to streamline permitting processes, reduce regulatory burdens, and align the rule with the Supreme Court’s recent Sackett v. EPA decision.

Watch the interview Video Podcast on WOTUS with Mary-Thomas Heart here:

During a press conference, Administrator Zeldin underscored the need for a durable and legally sound WOTUS definition. “We want clean water for all Americans supported by clear and consistent rules for states, farmers, and small businesses,” said Zeldin. “The previous administration’s definition placed unfair burdens on the American people and drove up business costs. Our goal is to protect America’s water resources while empowering farmers, landowners, and entrepreneurs to help power the Great American Comeback.”

Farmers and ranchers have long criticized previous WOTUS definitions for their complexity and excessive regulatory reach. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins emphasized the importance of practical and clear water regulations. “Farmers and ranchers are the best stewards of the land and need water regulations that are clear and practical, not burdensome,” said Rollins. “USDA supports EPA’s revisions that provide certainty and recognize the key role that agriculture plays in protecting our natural resources.”

The revised WOTUS rule will incorporate Supreme Court guidance, ensuring only relatively permanent water bodies—such as rivers, lakes, and streams—fall under federal jurisdiction. Wetlands will only be covered if they have a continuous surface connection to these federally regulated waters. This change is expected to alleviate permitting costs and regulatory uncertainty for landowners and businesses nationwide.

EPA will seek input from stakeholders, including farmers, ranchers, businesses, and local officials, who were sidelined in previous rulemaking efforts. The agency has committed to:

• Hosting listening sessions for public comment
• Issuing a Federal Register notice for further stakeholder engagement
• Providing guidance to states implementing the pre-2015 WOTUS definition

Mary-Thomas Hart, Chief Counsel for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, welcomed the announcement. “Today’s news is welcome for farmers and ranchers who have long fought against WOTUS overreach,” said Hart. “A narrower, clearer definition will allow EPA to focus its limited resources on protecting water bodies that truly impact national water quality.”

Hart also encouraged producers to participate in the rulemaking process. “It’s critical for landowners to engage directly and submit input to ensure their voices are heard,” she added.

Since the Clean Water Act’s enactment in 1972, there have been 14 different regulatory iterations of WOTUS. Many in the agriculture community hope this latest revision will provide lasting clarity and end regulatory uncertainty.

“Farmers and ranchers need regulatory stability,” said Hart. “Hopefully, this is the beginning of a long-term solution that will stand the test of time.”

EPA’s review process is expected to move quickly, with new rulemaking procedures already underway. Farmers, ranchers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to follow developments and participate in upcoming public forums to ensure their concerns are addressed.

Source: Western Ag Network