The National Wildlife Federation

Donate Donate

Administration Repeals Protections for Many Streams, Wetlands

"We will continue to fight to protect America’s waterways every step of the way.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Administration is set to announce its repeal of the Clean Water Rule, which had legally clarified that the Clean Water Act protected approximately 60 percent of the nation’s stream miles and millions of acres of wetlands. These streams provide drinking water to 117 million Americans and they are important for salmon, trout and other fish species. These wetlands provide habitat for more than half of North American migratory waterfowl. 

“No one wants to fish a lake covered in toxic algae, duck hunt in a bulldozed wetland, or pitch a tent next to a creek filled with feces,” says Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “Unfortunately, this Administration is working on multiple fronts to rewrite the rules that protect our waters, hoping no one will notice. The collective impact of these changes would be devastating for public health and wildlife across the country—and we will continue to fight to protect America’s waterways every step of the way.”

Get Involved

Where We Work

More than one-third of U.S. fish and wildlife species are at risk of extinction in the coming decades. We're on the ground in seven regions across the country, collaborating with 52 state and territory affiliates to reverse the crisis and ensure wildlife thrive.

Learn More
Regional Centers and Affiliates