The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of the Army have concluded a series of public listening sessions to gather input on their revised definition of "waters of the United States" (WOTUS). These sessions aimed to incorporate public feedback into the rulemaking process, which is crucial for developing a durable definition that will protect water quality and support economic growth.
Jess Kramer, EPA Assistant Administrator for Water, emphasized the importance of finalizing a WOTUS definition that aligns with the Supreme Court's decision in Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency. Kramer said, "Incorporating public feedback on our proposal is critical to achieving these goals." The sessions highlighted stakeholders' desire for a lasting rule that balances environmental protection with economic interests.
Adam Telle, Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works), noted that under President Trump's leadership, the new rule aims to replace regulatory confusion with clarity, benefiting landowners and vital services. He expressed confidence in swiftly implementing a final rule that reduces bureaucratic obstacles.
The listening sessions began on December 12 in Bismarck, North Dakota, hosted by U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer, continued in Pittsburgh on December 15, and concluded with virtual sessions on December 16. Participants included farmers, ranchers, builders, energy producers, manufacturers, states, Tribes, municipal stormwater coalitions, environmental groups, and the general public.
The agencies will accept written comments on the proposed rule until January 5, 2026. The WOTUS definition guides Clean Water Act programs' implementation and determines whether permits are required for certain projects. Under the Biden Administration's amended 2023 definition was considered overly broad and did not fully implement the Supreme Court's Sackett decision.
On November 17, 2025, a revised WOTUS definition was proposed to follow Supreme Court guidance while reducing red tape and costs associated with permitting processes across communities nationwide.
Further information about Waters of the United States can be found at https://www.epa.gov/wotus/current-implementation-waters-united-states
