December 12, 2025

NDFB President Val Wagner speaks at WOTUS listening session

Topic: Events

BISMARCK, ND - North Dakota Farm Bureau (NDFB) President Val Wagner spoke at the Waters of the United States Listening Session with the EPA Office of Water and U.S. Army – Civil Works on Friday, December 12, in Bismarck.

Wagner stressed the importance of a clear and limited WOTUS definition. “Past interpretations of WOTUS treated everyday puddles and sloughs as federally regulated waters, adding stress and instability to farmers’ daily decisions,” said Wagner.  

She praised the proposed rule for narrowing federal oversight to waters with continuous surface connections while excluding seasonal puddles, sloughs, isolated wetlands, groundwater, and agricultural ditches. Wagner highlighted that the rule shifts the burden of proof to the federal government, allowing farmers to manage their land without unnecessary interference.

"The proposed rule is legally durable and faithfully implements the Supreme Court’s recent Sackett decision," said Wagner. "It narrows the scope of federal oversight to waters that have continuous surface connections."

Wagner also emphasized the need for practical implementation, urging regulators to ensure the rule is workable on the ground. “Farmers and ranchers are the best stewards of the land—they simply need the freedom to do their jobs,” she said.

NDFB supports the proposed WOTUS rule and encourages its swift adoption to provide certainty for landowners and strengthen the future of American agriculture.