The proposed Clean Water Act definition rule is based on a vast body of scientific literature that recognizes the vital connections between smaller streams, wetlands and downstream waters. The rule defines which waters are protected by the Clean Water Act and clarifies who is responsible for pollution control.
Learn how the new rule could protect “isolated waters” like vernal pools and prairie potholes which science proves provide important functions, like reducing flooding, pollution as well as filtering groundwater that replenishes underground aquifers. The Missouri Coalition for the Environment does a great job as explaining the importance of these vulnerable areas.
Prairie Potholes Photo Credit: Missouri Coalition for the Environment
Field and Stream recently wrote an article, “Why Clean Water Means Liberty,” that explains how our land and clean water is what gives our property value.
“It has become woefully clear, in the past year or so, that when we fail to conserve these assets, and protect them from those who would do them harm or take them away from us, not only do we lose our fishing and hunting, we also endanger our prosperity and liberty.” read full article here
Scientist Jon Vallazza sampling fish on Pool 8, Upper Mississippi River
The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership wrote and article, “A Sportsman’s Tackle Box for Understanding the Clean Water Act Rule,” that puts in perspective clean water’s impact on wildlife so important to hunters and anglers. Essentially: no clean water = no animals = no fun.
“Many of the waters currently at risk of pollution and destruction are smaller streams that, though they may only flow for part of the year, are spawning grounds for trout, salmon and other fish. The wetlands at risk provide nesting habitat for most of the waterfowl in America. Taken together, these waters form the building blocks of a $200 billion a year sportsmen’s economy and are necessary to enjoy quality time in the field hunting and fishing.” read on here