Strategic Plan Workgroup hosts scoping calls (open to SWS members) **AND** The EPA and Army Corps of Engineers publish memo concerning proper implementation of "continuous surface connection" under the definition of WOTUS under the Clean Water Act.
First, The SWS Workgroup is compiling input for the strategic plan update. All SWS members are encouraged to get involved and provide input on the strategic directions of the society. The first of four scoping calls was held in March with three additional calls scheduled for:
- April 23rd 4:00 pm (Central)
- May 7th 10:00 am (Central)
- May 16th 12:00 pm (Central)
In addition, there will be a half day free workshop on the draft strategic plan update during the annual meeting in Providence, RI on Tuesday, July 15th 1:00 – 4:00 pm. If you would like more information or would like to provide any comments, please contact us.
Becky Pierce, President-elect - rebecca.pierce@state.co.us
Eric Stein, President – erics@sccwrp.org
Secondly, The EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers published a memorandum on March 12th, 2025 in response to requests for clarification on the interpretation of adjacent wetlands under the Clean Water Act related to the May 2023 Sackett v. EPA Supreme Court decision. The purpose of the memorandum is to clarify the term “continuous surface connection” and thereby clarify what is considered as an adjacent jurisdictional wetland for implementation under the Waters of the U.S. Rule as implemented by the two currently operative regulatory regimes in effect within the U.S.
Please see the news article here: To Conform with Recent Supreme Court Decision, EPA and Army Amend “Waters of the United States” Rule | US EPA