Iowa Leaders Submit Comments on EPA’s Proposed Definition of WOTUS

DES MOINES, Iowa (April 15, 2019) — Iowa Governor Reynolds, Secretary of Agriculture Naig, Acting Director of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Bruce Trautman, and Director of the Iowa Department of Transportation Mark Lowe submitted comments to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today. The letter voiced support for the EPA’s proposed changes to the definition of “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS).

“The new WOTUS rule provides much-needed stability for our farmers whose livelihoods depend upon their ability to work the land,” said Gov. Reynolds. “It’s another win in the battle against the Obama administration’s massive federal overreach in 2015. During this time, I’ve been proud to be Iowa’s voice at EPA hearings and our recent district court victory in 2018. We must continue to be vigilant as future generations of farmers are counting on us to succeed.”

“Farmers, businesses and communities need to clearly understand what bodies of water are and are not covered under the WOTUS rule,” said Secretary Naig. “We appreciate the EPA’s willingness to listen to farmers, address their concerns about the previous definition, and give the public the opportunity to weigh in on the proposed changes.”

“DNR is responsible for implementing many programs under the Clean Water Act. We hope the EPA’s response to these comments and suggestions will clear up some uncertain areas of the proposal,” said DNR Acting-Director Bruce Trautman. “We are grateful for the opportunity to submit comments and look forward to supporting the process as it moves forward.”

In February, the EPA proposed changes to the definition of WOTUS as outlined in 2015. The letter from Governor Reynolds, Secretary Naig, Trautman and Lowe were submitted to the EPA during the 60-day public comment period.

To read the State of Iowa WOTUS Comments letter, click here.