Army Corps Proposes Fish-Friendly Water Project Permits
Published Date: 6/18/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wants to update and reissue permits that let people do certain water-related projects with little environmental harm. They’re adding a new permit to help fish swim better and tweaking others to make rules clearer and easier to follow. If you work with water projects like shellfish farming, these changes could affect you soon, so get ready to share your thoughts!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Changes to Shellfish and Finfish Mariculture Permits
The Corps proposes modifications to two specific 2021 Nationwide Permits: NWP 48 for commercial shellfish mariculture and NWP 56 for finfish mariculture to address litigation. If you operate commercial shellfish or finfish mariculture activities, these permit terms are being changed in response to that litigation.
Reissue and Simplify Nationwide Permits
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is proposing to reissue its existing Nationwide Permits (NWPs) and change general conditions and definitions to simplify and clarify the rules. If you run or contract on water-related projects, these changes are intended to reduce regulatory burdens and make the permits easier to follow.
New Permit for Fish Passage Projects
The Corps proposes a new Nationwide Permit that would authorize activities to improve the passage of fish and other aquatic organisms through aquatic ecosystems. If you do projects to improve fish passage, this new permit would be a specific authorization option under the Corps' Nationwide Permit program.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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