Trump Completes Years-Long Revamp of Protected Waterways (4)

The administration has completed its rewrite of the nation’s official definition of what constitutes a federally protected water body, the culmination of a push that began three years ago, just weeks after President Donald Trump’s inauguration.

The new definition of is far narrower than the Obama administration’s version, as it excludes isolated wetlands and ephemeral streams, which only flow after a heavy rainfall. However, the definition does include intermittent streams that flow only during certain times of year.

“If it normally flows, it is in,” said David Ross, the EPA’s top water regulator. “We believe our rule provides clearer instruction ...