COEProposed Rule
Implementation of the Definition of Waters of the United States
EnvironmentAgricultureHousing
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Summary
The Army Corps of Engineers is proposing a new rule to clarify which bodies of water—like streams, wetlands, and ponds—are protected under federal law. This matters because the definition affects which landowners need permission before building on or polluting water areas, and it influences how much environmental protection different regions receive.
Key Points
- 1The rule defines which water areas fall under federal protection, including streams, wetlands, and seasonal water sources that connect to larger waterways
- 2Landowners and developers may need federal permits before using or modifying land containing protected waters, which could affect construction and farming activities
- 3The definition determines which waters get environmental safeguards against pollution and destruction, impacting drinking water sources and wildlife habitats
- 4Different regions may be affected differently depending on how much water bodies they contain and what the local economy depends on
- 5This is still a proposed rule, meaning the public has a chance to comment before the final version takes effect
Key Dates
Published
March 24, 2025
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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