Wisconsin Farmers Celebrate Move Toward Ending WOTUS Rule.
Several Wisconsin agriculture organizations say they’re relieved the United States Environmental Protection Agency has moved one step closer to removing the controversial Waters of the United States rule.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order in February directing the EPA to begin the process of withdrawing the WOTUS rule.
On Tuesday, EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt put forth a proposal to take back the Obama-era rule.
This is the first step of many to repeal and replace the regulation, according to the The New York Times.
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation President Jim Holte said WOTUS regulations would have been a burden on producers in the state.
Holte said there are more logical ways to protect water resources that are not as "invasive" for farmers.
"Our members are clear in the fact that we want to remain stewards of the land and the water, and ensure that clean water is available today and for future generations.
Levendofsky said some WFU members are concerned removing WOTUS will lead to further cuts to water protections in the EPA.
He was one of more than 20 state attorneys general who called on the EPA to remove the WOTUS rule earlier this month.