IAGLR expresses concern over proposed changes to definition of WOTUS

Jan 5, 2026

IAGLR urged the U.S. EPA to withdraw proposed revisions to the definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) in a letter sent today to government officials. "Weakening this definition will remove essential protections from wetlands and streams that feed into our lakes, rivers, and drinking water sources—including the Great Lakes," the letter stated. In addition, IAGLR joined seven other members of the Consortium of Aquatic Science Societies in a joint letter to offer comments on the proposed revisions. CASS members noted that the revisions would weaken federal protection of U.S. waters and called for "the development and use of the best-available science to sustainably manage our freshwater, estuarine, coastal, and ocean resources for broad economic, environmental and public health benefits."