ADEQ Releases WOTUS Rule Comments and FY26 Strategic Plan Overview

www.azdeq.gov

Detected March 20th, 2026

Summary

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has published its comments on the proposed rule concerning the Updated Definition of Waters of the United States. Additionally, the agency has released an overview of its Fiscal Year 2026 Strategic Plan.

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What changed

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has made public its submitted comments regarding the proposed federal rule to update the definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS). This action indicates the state's position and input on the federal regulatory initiative. Concurrently, ADEQ has also published an overview of its Strategic Plan for Fiscal Year 2026, outlining its priorities and intended outcomes for protecting public health and the environment in Arizona.

While these publications do not impose new direct compliance obligations on regulated entities, they provide insight into ADEQ's engagement with federal environmental policy and its internal strategic direction. Compliance officers should note the state's stance on WOTUS, which may influence future state-level implementation or enforcement, and review the FY26 Strategic Plan for potential long-term shifts in ADEQ's focus areas and regulatory priorities.

Source document (simplified)

Page: www.azdeq.gov
Change summary: The Arizona ADEQ has released comments on the proposed rule regarding the Updated Definition of Waters of the United States, available at ADEQ Comments on the Proposed Rule: Updated Definition of Waters of the United States. Additionally, an overview of the Fiscal Year 2026 Strategic Plan has been published.
[INSERTS] ADEQ Comments on the Proposed Rule: Updated Definition of Waters of the United States
[INSERTS] Fiscal Year 2026 Strategic Plan Overview

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To protect and enhance public health and the environment in Arizona.
- Through consistent, science-based environmental regulation; and clear, equitable engagement and communication;
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Fiscal Year 2026

Strategic Plan Overview
ADEQ has focused on five strategic issues that led to the creation of five-year tangible outcomes that benefit public health and the environment.
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- January 5 | ADEQ Comments on the Proposed Rule: Updated Definition of Waters of the United States | View Letter >

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