EPA Repeal of Water Rule Threatens New Mexico’s Waters and Communities

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers repealed the 2015 Obama-era Rule that clarified the definition of “Waters of the US” (WOTUS). Waters that are included in WOTUS receive protection under the Clean Water Act. The settings for the announcement say it all: EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler made his announcement at the National Association of Manufacturers. The Administrator for EPA Region 6, in Dallas (which includes New Mexico), made his announcement at the Dallas Builders Association. The NM Environment Department estimated that up to 96% of New Mexico’s surface waters could lose protection under the proposed new definition. Amigos Bravos and the Law Center offered extensive comments on the proposed Rule change in April. Read our press release on the repeal.