Take action to stop threat on wetlands protection

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Environmental Protection Agency decision makers

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I oppose the new WOTUS rule, Docket ID No. EPAHQOW 20250322

To [Decision Maker],

I am writing to ask the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers to reject the proposed new WOTUS rule and to instead work with lawmakers, agencies, and stakeholders to strengthen and improve wetland protection policies.

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As a Floridian, living in a state that has more wetlands than any other state in the continental US, the protection of wetlands is extremely important to me. Wetlands are "nature's kidneys," absorbing nutrients and pollution, and serve to protect downstream waters.

Florida is experiencing a population boom and facing future water shortages, and protecting wetlands helps provide for our future water needs.  Protecting wetlands is cheaper and more effective than building water storage and treatment facilities.

In a region still reeling from the devastating impacts associated with hurricanes, especially Hurricanes Ian and Milton, we understand the benefits of wetlands for flood protection. Wetlands serve as natural infrastructure for disaster risk reduction from hazards such as floods, droughts, and storm surges, which account for over 90% of natural disasters.

The agencies are only considering cost savings to developers and other applicants, but they haven't examined the impact of reduced wetland protections on nature-driven economies like those we enjoy here in southwest Florida. Poor water quality can equate to millions and even billions of dollars of losses to property values, fisheries, and tourism.

Further, a narrower definition for what constitutes a wetland would also impact how endangered species, like the Florida panther and other wetland-dependent species, would be considered in the permitting process.

The proposed changes to the Clean Water Act's WOTUS rule will be detrimental to wetlands nationwide, and especially wetlands in Florida. At a time when wetland protection policies need to be strengthened, not weakened, the proposed WOTUS rule change should not be implemented.

I ask the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers to reject the proposed new WOTUS rule and to instead work with lawmakers, agencies, and stakeholders to strengthen and improve wetland protection policies.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
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[Your Email]