Which agency has veto authority over the US Army Corps of Engineers in issuing wetland fill permits?

Which agency has veto authority over the US Army Corps of Engineers in issuing wetland fill permits?

• A. US Environmental Protection Agency
• B. US Department of Agriculture
• C. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• D. US Fish and Wildlife Service

Answer: (A)

The agency with veto authority over the US Army Corps of Engineers when it comes to issuing wetland fill permits is the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Clean Water Act delegates specific authority to the Corps for managing permits related to the discharge of dredged or fill material into navigable waters, which includes wetlands. However, the EPA has the power to review these permits under Section 404(c) of the Clean Water Act and can prohibit or restrict the use of particular sites for disposal of dredged or fill material. This oversight is vital in protecting water quality and wetlands from degradation, ensuring that environmental considerations are taken into account in the permitting process. Thus, the EPA plays a crucial role in safeguarding ecological integrity while balancing developmental needs.

The agency with veto authority over the US Army Corps of Engineers when it comes to issuing wetland fill permits is the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Clean Water Act delegates specific authority to the Corps for managing permits related to the discharge of dredged or fill material into navigable waters, which includes wetlands. However, the EPA has the power to review these permits under Section 404(c) of the Clean Water Act and can prohibit or restrict the use of particular sites for disposal of dredged or fill material. This oversight is vital in protecting water quality and wetlands from degradation, ensuring that environmental considerations are taken into account in the permitting process. Thus, the EPA plays a crucial role in safeguarding ecological integrity while balancing developmental needs.