Update: This fundraising campaign has concluded, and we have successfully submitted our amicus brief to the Supreme Court! Please consider supporting our clean water enforcement program by joining the Coastkeeper Crew.
The Clean Water Act is the United States’ strongest defense against waterway pollution. Despite its flaws and limitations, this critical legislation has significantly reduced pollution and improved water quality nationwide. In recent years, the Clean Water Act has been under relentless attack.
In May 2023, the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA dealt a significant blow to the Act, weakening what’s defined as “Waters of the United States.” Now, we face another critical moment as the Supreme Court reviews City and County of San Francisco v. EPA, a case that could set a precedent affecting every stormwater permit in the United States.
Throughout the country, Clean Water Act discharge permits are written with broad language that appears to protect water quality but, in reality, are unenforceable. Right now, we have the opportunity to convince the Supreme Court to avoid further deregulation and improve stormwater permits by using end-of-pipe metrics, making them more enforceable by citizen groups. But we need YOUR help.
Why This Matters
If we can secure enough funding, we will prepare and submit an amicus brief to the Supreme Court. Our brief will provide the Court with expert insights on water quality and stormwater litigation, highlighting the importance of enforceable permit terms that benefit both the environment and industry.
This is our chance to make a compelling case for maintaining stringent, clear, and enforceable stormwater permits without dismantling all narrative requirements, such as requirements to prevent discoloration and odor.
The Stakes Are High
The outcome of this case will impact how stormwater and water discharge permits are written and enforced around the country. With your support, we can argue that providing clearly enforceable permit terms ensures environmental protection and offers regulatory certainty that benefits businesses.
Why Us?
Our enforcement program has brought over 150 industrial facilities into Clean Water Act compliance. For over two decades, we’ve been a voice for clean water in the region and have countless hours of experience working with stormwater permits. This case is too important for us to stand on the sidelines.
How You Can Help
We need your help to make this possible. This project costs approximately $25,000 to draft, print, and file the brief following specialized procedures required by the Supreme Court. Together, we can ensure that our waterway protections remain strong and effective.
With increasing attempts to dismantle environmental protections, the United States could use a win for clear, enforceable stormwater permits.
Please consider donating today to help us defend the Clean Water Act. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference. Thank you for standing with us in this critical fight for our environment.
