The National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) says member companies have until 15 April to submit comments that support a clearer Waters of the US (WOTUS) rule.
The new rule was released in December 2018, but the federal government shutdown slows the rule’s publication in the federal register, thereby extending the review period to over 120 days, the association adds.
This replacement proposal includes NSSGA’s suggestion that dry stream beds and isolated waters should not be federally regulated under the federal Clean Water Act (CWA).
NSSGA will comment favourably on the rule on behalf of the industry and will shortly have a form letter for members to use to submit comments. Until then, companies can highlight specific examples of where the process of obtaining CWA permits form the Corps has been problematic in the past.
Michele Stanley, NSSGA vice president of government and regulatory affairs, says aggregates operations have worked hard for years to let elected offices and government agencies know about the industry’s need for a clear rule that protects US waters.
“Our members have had to work through a lengthy and unpredictable permitting process in order to expand existing or open new operations. So the new rule should provide needed relief in order for our members to more easily produce materials for vital infrastructure projects,” Stanley adds.
For more information listen to NSSGA’s podcast on WOTUS and contact the NSSGA’s Environmental Subcommittee.
