Our smallest streams and wetlands matter. Tell EPA to protect them.
More than 800 of our supporters like you have already spoken up about changes to the Clean Water Act this year, and today, we’re asking you to take action again.
The EPA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are considering further changes to the definition of “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS), which determines which streams and wetlands receive federal protections. These changes could leave even more of West Virginia’s waters without safeguards.
Earlier this year, the agencies released a supplemental proposal that builds on earlier efforts to narrow Clean Water Act protections. The stakes are high for our state, where small headwater streams feed larger rivers, wetlands help filter pollution and slow flooding, and seasonal waterways support healthy watersheds. Our smallest streams and wetlands matter, whether or not they flow year-round.
EPA estimates that 96% of West Virginia’s wetlands could lose federal protection under its 2025 proposal. Now, the agencies are considering further changes.
Adding the name of a creek, river, or wetland you care about, or sharing why clean water matters to you, helps decision-makers understand what’s at stake for West Virginia communities. We encourage you to personalize your brief comment for added impact. Here is a map where you can explore potentially impacted waters near you.
Comments are due October 9. Thank you for continuing to show up for the rivers, streams, and communities we all depend on.
We know it takes time and energy to stay engaged, and we’re grateful you’re here.
For clean water and healthy communities,
West Virginia Rivers Coalition
