RICHMOND-The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed modifications to the Clean Water Act definitely will expand the federal government’s regulation of agriculture land uses, according to Donald Parrish, senior director of regulatory relations for the American Farm Bureau Federation. That’s despite EPA statements that existing exemption for agriculture operations will remain intact.
“The EPA is sticking to their talking points. They’re saying they’re not expanding jurisdiction, Parrish said. “But for the first time ever, EPA is defining ditches as tributaries. This really does blur the distinction between land and water. And Congress didn’t intend that. Continue reading “Farm Bureau: Proposed EPA water regulations won’t exempt farmers”