The Trump administration revoked the 2015 Waters of the United States rule that redefined waterways subject to federal regulation.
The rule, enacted by the Obama administration, broadened the classification of waterways under federal Clean Water Act regulation. That measure drew criticism from developers and farmers who said it unduly restricted economic development and infringed on property rights.
Federal agencies plan to adopt a new rule by the end of the year that would likely define protected waterways more narrowly. The Clean Water Act requires landowners to obtain federal permits before developing or polluting navigable waterways.
There have been longstanding fights over what other waters, such as wetlands that don’t have a direct connection to those larger waters and small headwater streams and channels that do not flow all year round, should be protected by federal Clean Water Act regulations.
Related Stories
Sponsored | Resiliency | Jan 24, 2022
Blast Hazard Mitigation: Building Openings for Greater Safety and Security
Codes and Standards | Jan 24, 2022
N.Y. governor calls for ban on natural gas in new buildings
Action follows New York City’s ban.
Codes and Standards | Jan 19, 2022
EPA may expand product lineup that can earn WaterSense label
Would include systems that enhance water quality at the tap.
Codes and Standards | Jan 19, 2022
Canada’s Trudeau seeking building codes changes, net-zero emissions building strategy
Prime minister also wants net-zero electricity grid by 2035.
Codes and Standards | Jan 18, 2022
Greater emphasis on building materials needed to achieve net-zero carbon offices
Engineered wood, straw, and bamboo can be keys to achieving goal.
Codes and Standards | Jan 17, 2022
AISC seeks comments on draft earthquake standard for steel buildings
Includes new limits for cross-sectional slenderness of steel columns based on latest research.
Codes and Standards | Jan 12, 2022
California’s wildfire building code significantly reduces structural loss
As other states consider upgrading their codes, Golden State provides useful model.
Codes and Standards | Jan 12, 2022
Regulator holding back climate-friendly, energy-saving equipment deployment, critics say
Heat pumps, solar power could be made more accessible for low-income communities in Massachusetts.
Codes and Standards | Jan 11, 2022
Cost hikes drive nearly one million renters out of homeownership qualification in 2021
Household income needed to pay a mortgage rose to $62,872 from $55,186.
Codes and Standards | Jan 10, 2022
New ratings services focus on climate risk for homeowners
Efficacy of models used in risk assessment varies.
