Comment On The Clean Water Act

The ditch rule interpretation under the federal Clean Water Act is open to comments by we the people until October 20, 2014.  I intend to comment and encourage my readers to do the same.  Click on the link above and follow the instructions.  If you need help, please email me and I will help you word your comments and get them to the proper address.  The How To Comment link looks quite complicated but you and I can do it.

"EPA officials announced Tuesday, June 10, that farmers, ranchers, rural property owners and other interested stakeholders will be allowed additional time to comment on its proposed water rules. The date for comment, that was set to expire July 21, has been extended until Oct. 20, 2014, an additional 91 days.

In addition, comment on the interpretive rule governing agricultural exemptions that was part of the Waters of the U.S. rule has been extended from June 5 until July 7.

On March 25, EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released a joint statement that would "clarify the definition of waters of the United States" under rules of the Clean Water Act. The announced drew fire from individual farmers, ranchers and farm and livestock support groups who contend such a change in the rules would expand EPA's authority to regulate water run-off ditches on private property, infringing on individual property rights.

EPA argued the proposed rule would not protect any new types of waters that have not historically been covered under the Clean Water Act and is consistent with the Supreme Court's definition of power granted EPA by the Clean Water Act."

I work hard to keep my soil in place and keep my water clean that ends up in the Ohio River pictured above and eventually to the Gulf of Mexico.  I think everybody should.

The ditch interpretation is very problematic for farmers and landowners.  I highly encourage you to comment.

Will you take time to voice your opinion?

Ed Winkle