Stockgrowers Applaud Changes Coming to Waters of the US
Author: Keni Reese, Montana Stock Growers, Communications Director
Stockgrowers Applaud Changes Coming to Waters of the US
Keni Reese
Montana Stock Growers Communications Director
The Montana Stockgrowers Association (MAGA) applauds changes coming to Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule after voicing strong disappointment in recent years on harmful rules implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The agency announced changes and the release of a new proposed rule recently, which will redefine the highly contested WOTUS definition by rescinding many Biden-era definitions and removing overbearing and far-reaching federal jurisdiction.
Most recently, MSGA submitted comments to the EPA in May encouraging the agency to move forward with this rulemaking process and draft a rule for release and public analysis. MSGA Executive Vice President, Raylee Honeycutt, also shared the organization’s continued request for certainty and clarity regarding the WOTUS rule during EPA’s agricultural stakeholders listening session this spring. Honeycutt was the only speaker among the 45 speakers from across the country who represented Montana agriculture.
Many of the concerns highlighted in MSGA's written comments are addressed in the new proposed rule. MSGA has advocated that ditches and water developments such as irrigation and drainage ditches need not be considered jurisdictional, as they often lack any significant downstream connection to natural, navigable waters. The proposed rule reflects this request as well as includes the reinstatement of clear exclusions for agricultural-specific features, including prior converted cropland and stockponds, another priority request for MSGA. The proposed rule contains multiple other important definitions and changes as requested by MSGA.
The proposed rule was formally released on November 20, kicking off a 45-day comment period closing on January 5, 2026. MSGA looks forward to supporting many of its requested changes in this proposed rule and remains committed to advocating for a concise, limited, and legally defensible WOTUS rule.
