EPA Changing it's definition on "Waters of the United States?"

got this in my e-mail this morning:

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently proposed a Clean Water Act rule change known as "waters of the U.S." The proposed rule would allow for a broader interpretation of the Clean Water Act, giving the EPA regulatory jurisdiction over a variety of waterways and water sources, many of which are not considered navigable waterways. This rule could result in EPA asserting jurisdiction over ditches, farm, and golf course ponds. Lengthy and costly permitting processes could become commonplace for landscape and nursery businesses.

What does this mean for your business? It could potentially mean that chemical applications, ground disturbances (planting included), and many other normal business activities could require permitting and further, could be subject to EPA oversight. AmericanHort is a strong supporter of environmentally responsible business and land use practices. However, this proposed ruling is seen as a regulatory overreach that could pose a significant challenge to nursery and landscape business operations across the country.

Legislation to address this issue (H.R. 5078, the Waters of the United States Regulatory Overreach Protection Act), passed the House of Representatives in September. Thanks to all who wrote letters to support this issue campaign. Unfortunately, the outlook is not favorable for action in the Senate this year.

With the EPA comment deadline just weeks away, now is a good time to let your state's Governor know that this rule is a problem for your business and your state. Urge your Governor to ask EPA to withdraw its "Waters of the U.S." rule.

Click the link below to log in and send your message:
https://www.votervoice.net/link/target/americanhort/4REP7cf22.aspx
 
Epa is getting more backlash than they thought they would get over this. I have slides in my presentation that show the difference between the original jurisdiction they had in the 70s vs what they are trying to control. I will try to post it. This isn't so much about permitting us. As a matter of fact, it probably won't do that. It is more about putting farmers and ranches out of business. You can bet if you dig deeper you will find huge corporate farms quietly backing this.
 
I'm trying to educate myself on the Clean Water act and the dealings with EPA ~ I can't tell you how many emails and calls I've made to the City of HOUSTON Health Dept. and our HPD Task Force and they have yet to really answer my questions or give me the information that they say they are enforcing. How the heck are you suppose to be compliant when they don't even communicate with you on it. I was told the next meeting is in March WTH I'm suppose to wait until then ? There seems to be many grey area's that just don't make sense. I'd really like to know where I can go to get more information so I can protect myself.
 
I'm trying to educate myself on the Clean Water act and the dealings with EPA ~ I can't tell you how many emails and calls I've made to the City of HOUSTON Health Dept. and our HPD Task Force and they have yet to really answer my questions or give me the information that they say they are enforcing. How the heck are you suppose to be compliant when they don't even communicate with you on it. I was told the next meeting is in March WTH I'm suppose to wait until then ? There seems to be many grey area's that just don't make sense. I'd really like to know where I can go to get more information so I can protect myself.
Talk to Doug Rucker.
 
I'm trying to educate myself on the Clean Water act and the dealings with EPA ~ I can't tell you how many emails and calls I've made to the City of HOUSTON Health Dept. and our HPD Task Force and they have yet to really answer my questions or give me the information that they say they are enforcing. How the heck are you suppose to be compliant when they don't even communicate with you on it. I was told the next meeting is in March WTH I'm suppose to wait until then ? There seems to be many grey area's that just don't make sense. I'd really like to know where I can go to get more information so I can protect myself.

Call or text me sometime and I'll be glad to help you out.
 
Does the UAMCC have plans to talk with the EPA about this or do something that will let them know that we are helping the environment?
 
Maybe we can sign a petition, get contractors from all over, every city to sign and have someone setup a press conference to talk about this to get the EPA to listen?
 
TexaaHunee I agree, I can't even find actual information on anything other than if your washing at night you'll get a ticket but if your washing during the day they ignore you?
 
Great heads up. Thanks!

AC
 
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