Policy
In Nebraska, water is life for people, crops, livestock and wildlife, as well as farms, ranches, business and industry. The 2015 Clean Water Rule was instated to protect this vital resource for all Nebraskans while also providing clarity and certainty for farmers and ranchers without expanding historical jurisdiction or permitting requirements.
Much misinformation has surrounded the Clean Water Rule, also known as the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule, both at its inception and today. Many have positioned the rule as a power grab increasing the EPA’s regulation and oversight authority over agricultural land. Instead the rule protects agriculture’s existing exemption and the protection of normal farming and ranching practices.
