January 23, 2020--The Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation (WyFB) applauds today’s announcement of a new Clean Water rule that brings much-needed clarity and certainty to enforcement of the Clean Water Act. The new rule issued by the EPA and Corps of Engineers brings clarity to which level of government – federal or state – oversees dry land that is sometimes wet. The new rule does not change who oversees permanent waterways, such as lakes, rivers, streams and other bodies that always or usually contain water. It does make clear that usually dry areas should not be considered federal waters. The new rule does not reduce environmental protections for water. “Wyoming Farm Bureau members deeply value protecting water resources,” WyFB President Todd Fornstrom stated. “Clean water and clear rules are what we believe in. By drawing clear lines between waters of the U.S. and waters of the state, the new rule strengthens the cooperative federalism Congress envisioned and that the Supreme Court has long recognized as fundamental to the Clean Water Act.” “The right balance between federal and state/local authority of water management provides much needed clarity and is better for the environment and the economy,” Fornstrom concluded. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall said: “Farmers and ranchers care about clean water and preserving the land, which are essential to producing healthy food and fiber and ensuring future generations can do the same. That’s why we support the new clean water rule. It provides clarity and certainty, allowing farmers to understand water regulations without having to hire teams of consultants and lawyers. We appreciate the commitment of the agencies involved and this administration to crafting a new regulation that achieves important regulatory oversight while allowing farmers to farm. Clean water, clear rules.” The Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation is the state’s largest general agriculture organization. The primary goals of the organization are to protect private property rights and help members achieve an equitable return on their investment. Visit www.wyfb.org.