On December 11, 2018, the EPA and Department of the Army proposed a rule revision for the Waters of the United States (WOTUS), with the goal of providing a clear, understandable, and implementable definition. ADEQ recognizes the significance of a change to the WOTUS definition and remains committed to protecting Arizona’s important and precious water resources.
EPA WOTUS rulemaking | Proposed revised definition of WOTUS
Due to the recent federal government shutdown, publication in the Federal Register has been delayed. Once the rule change is published, ADEQ encourages individuals and other stakeholders to submit comments directly to the EPA. However, the agency will also be gathering input through a collaborative stakeholder process. ADEQ will consider this input when developing a comment to the EPA.
Coming up in February, ADEQ will host a series of stakeholder meetings. Participation can be in person or remote; you can also provide input online. In addition to gathering input, the goal of these meetings is to provide more information about how the proposed change could impact Arizona waterways. You can help ADEQ by letting them know whether you plan to attend. Each meeting will provide the same content and includes opportunities for remote participation. (View meeting info and RSVP.)
For more information, contact Andy Koester, Manager, Surface Water Protection, ADEQ at 602-771-4689.