While we are working in environmental advocacy, some weeks require more attention and focus than others. This February has been one of those milestones. While the headlines have been consumed by news of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shifting its regulatory priorities, we are paying attention to another story happening simultaneously.

We are navigating two of the most significant shifts in federal environmental policy in decades. Here is what is happening on the ground and why your voice is more important than ever.

Strengthening Local Voices in Water Protection

For years, Section 401 of the Clean Water Act focused on water quality has been a vital tool for states and Tribes alike. It allowed for local authorities to review major federal projects—such as pipelines—to ensure they would not compromise local water quality.

A most recent proposal by the EPA seeks to narrow the “scope” of these reviews, such that instead of looking at a project’s broad impact on a watershed, the EPA is seeking to limit reviews to specific isolated “discharge points.” The agency’s goal is to “streamline” infrastructure by reducing the power of states to block or delay projects.

Advocates across the land are pointing out that water does not stay in one “point”—water flows. Protecting a community’s drinking water—during prolonged drought in areas across the country and world— requires more oversight, not less.

On February 12, 2026, the EPA finalized a decision to rescind the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding. This finding had-for 2 decades-served as a powerful piece of the Clean Air Act, establishing that greenhouse gases were/are in fact pollutants that directly endanger public health. Given the decision is firm, the EPA is removing any legal requirement to regulate or even “count” emissions from cars and trucks manufactured in 2012-2027 and beyond.

We Are Paying Attention

While the agency argues that these regulations are an economic burden, the scientific community remains clear: the health of our environment and the health of our economy are inextricably linked.

Remember: policy can change but the public’s right to be heard remains constant. We are not just watching these protections be adjusted; we are actively working to further and advance water and environmental protections. We are using our voices and ensuring the public record contains comments that prioritize human health over short-term regulatory ease. Waterspirit submitted comments to the EPA and will continue to use every opportunity to speak up for water and for justice.

Please stay up to date with us and reach out any time to water@waterspirit.org with any questions, ideas, feedback, etc. We love to hear from you!