EPA Threatens to Remove Federal Water Protections

Dear Coastkeeper community,

On Monday, the EPA announced its plan to dramatically narrow what qualifies as a “Water of the United States,” reducing federal protections under the Clean Water Act. For more than 50 years, this law, which the majority of Americans support, has been our country’s strongest safeguard for clean, healthy waterways.

By restricting which waters fall under the Clean Water Act, the EPA’s proposal could strip protections from rivers, streams, wetlands, lakes, and other vital waterways. Without federal oversight, our communities will become more vulnerable to pollution, putting drinking water, fisheries, and aquatic habitats at risk.

Coastkeeper has been preparing for a federal attack on our waters. That’s why this year we partnered with the California Coastkeeper Alliance in championing Senate Bill 601, the Right to Clean Water Act. SB 601 would write longstanding federal water protections directly into California law, ensuring our state maintains the same strong safeguards we’ve relied on for decades. Similar efforts have been made in Wisconsin, Colorado, New Mexico, and Maryland.

Although the bill made substantial progress in 2025, it was ultimately shelved for the current legislative session due to last-minute hurdles. It will return next year as a two-year bill. Now, with the EPA’s rollback officially underway, we are hopeful for a renewed wave of support from Californians who understand what’s at stake.

California has a chance to stand strong by stepping up where federal protections are falling short. And when the next legislative session begins, we’re going to need a community of people ready to speak up for clean water.

As we look ahead to this critical work, I’m asking you to help us enter the new year prepared. This giving season, we’re aiming to raise $15,000 and welcome 15 new monthly sustainers who will fuel the fight to protect clean water for future generations. Your support ensures we can respond quickly, advocate powerfully, and hold the line when clean water is threatened.

Thank you for standing with us.

For clean water,