Leaders of Arizona’s agricultural and development community have joined forces to oppose federal legislation that they said would give the United States Environmental Protection Agency broad control over “ponds and puddles” in Arizona.
Critics of the legislation introduced by Congressman James Orberstar, D-Minn., gathered at the Capitol grounds Dec. 20 to rally the opposition. They said the legislation would have sweeping effects in Arizona and diminish the state’s flexibility to manage its own waterways. Attendees included representatives from the Central Arizona Project and the Roosevelt Water Conservation District, as well as business leaders.
Conversely, supporters of Oberstar’s bill argue that it is necessary in light of a recent Supreme Court decision that limited the federal government’s oversight of non-navigable waterways. They said it will reinforce the original intent of the Clean Water Act and bring states into compliance with federal guidelines.
The legislation was discussed before Congress adjourned for the holidays and is likely to be picked up once again in the beginning of the year.