The Bush regime, in their never-ending environmental stewardship, has issued a new rule through the EPA that, in their words
"maintains the Bush administration's strong commitment to wetlands conservation."
You should read all about it here:
http://www.sptimes.com/...
According to the article, the new rule removes protections for non-permanent streams and wetlands. In other words, water bodies that dry up and/or are inundated only part of the year need to demonstrate "significant nexus" with a traditional waterway, in their words. The definition of "Significant nexus" appears to be a judgement call, but may be defined in this new rule. Let's hope they'll at least do that.
This is significant because it can reduce flood protection and other environmental services provided by low-lying land that may be dry part of the time, but, by definition, also holds water part of the time. More importantly, it could open low-lying lands, or part-time floodplains, to development. We can see where this is going: creating man-made structures in areas prone to flooding from intermittent or possibly rare storm events. Or maybe even not-so rare storm events, depending on the location. This would serve the dual purpose of creating man-made hazards in addition to increasing net-loss of wetlands, something the Bushies have stated they are committed to keep from happening. "Clear Skies Initiative" anyone?
Development in areas prone to inundation has historically been a hazardous endeaver. The aftermath from Hurricane Katrina is the most obvious example, the totality of destruction which has yet to be accounted for even at this late date. Other examples of catasrophic flooding abound, and examples in the comments are welcomed. Loss of life from developed wetlands and floodplains are plentiful in poorer countries that don't have a relatively complete set of environmental regulations like the US. But Bush is changing that situation right before our very eyes by dismantling the environmental laws that have contributed to our health, economy, and national well-being for decades. Add a feather to his cap.
Let's give the Bushes a hand for at least being consistent.