As previously reported in March 2025, the EPA and the Army Corp of Engineers announced a 30-day comment period to solicit feedback on key aspects of the definition of “Water of the United States” (WOTUS) in the Clean Water Act.

GCSAA submitted comments to the federal docket on April 23 focused on clarifying the scope of the Clean Water Act over (1) “relatively permanent waters”; (2) wetlands with a “continuous surface connection” to a WOTUS; and (3) ditches. 

GCSAA is working with the EPA and Waters Advocacy Coalition toward a rule that has more clarity, predictability and consistency while respecting the role of the states and tribes in protecting the nation’s water resources.

Read the GCSAA WOTUS comments here.

On May 1, 2025 (National Golf Day), Bob Helland, GCSAA director of congressional and federal affairs, provided public testimony at a WOTUS listening session at EPA headquarters in Washington, D.C. On March 12, 2025, the agencies announced a Federal Register notice publicizing a series of listening sessions to solicit feedback on key aspects of the definition of “Water of the United States.” Nine listening sessions were held either virtually or in-person with a virtual option for States, Tribes, local governments, industry and agricultural stakeholders, environmental and conservation stakeholders and the general public.

Contact Bob Helland for more information.