From: Wally Taylor <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask]
Sent: Wed, May 25, 2011 8:27:41 AM
Subject: EPA Clean Water Act guidance
EPA has published draft guidance on federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act. Over the past 10 years the U.S. Supreme Court has limited federal jurisdiction over "waters of the United States" that can be protected under the Clean Water Act. During the Bush administration, EPA issued guidance that very narrowly interpreted these decisions. EPA has now issued new guidance that more closely follows the court decisions and the intent of the Clean Water Act.
EPA is taking public comments on the new guidance until June 31. I am working on some extensive comments on behalf of the Iowa Chapter. The Clean Water Network suggests that our comments provide specific examples of how stronger guidance will protect streams and wetlands in Iowa. Also, it would be good if we could identify specific waters in Iowa that we are concerned about protecting (isolated wetlands, intermittent streams, etc.). Our comments can ask EPA to protect these resources and we should present scientific evidence to show how these waters are important to the physical, biological, and chemical integrity of a local watershed.
If anyone has anyone has specific examples and information relating to the above, please give me the information and I will incorporate that information into my comments.
Wally Taylor
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