Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig has submitted comments to federal regulators in support of proposed updates to the definition of “Waters of the United States,” while urging added flexibility to advance conservation projects in Iowa.
Naig sent the comments to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, saying clearer and more predictable rules under the Clean Water Act are critical for farmers, landowners and conservation partners. He said voluntary practices such as water quality wetlands play a key role in Iowa’s nutrient reduction strategy by reducing nitrates and improving downstream water quality.
Naig said overly burdensome permitting requirements have slowed or prevented wetland projects, particularly where artificial drainage systems can trigger federal jurisdiction. He noted that additional red tape can delay projects, increase costs or force them to be relocated or abandoned.
Naig urged the EPA and the Corps to provide regulatory relief and clear exclusions for conservation-based improvements, including wetland restoration projects that also benefit wildlife habitat and flood mitigation.
He said federal policy should encourage proven, science-based conservation practices rather than stand in their way.
