Biden Administration Water Protection Policies

The video discusses the history and impact of water protection laws in the US, focusing on the Clean Water Act of 1972. It highlights the role of photography in raising awareness about pollution and the ongoing political disagreements over waterway protections, particularly in New Mexico. The video explains the types of waterways and their ecological significance, the legal challenges faced by water protection laws, and the impact of policy changes under different administrations.

What was the primary focus of the photographers commissioned by the US government in the 1970s?

• To promote tourism in the US

• To highlight environmental issues, especially water pollution

• To document industrial growth

• To capture the beauty of US landscapes

Which river is considered the main artery of New Mexico?

• Rio Fernando

• Santa Fe River

• Rio Pueblo

• Rio Grande

What type of water source is the Rio Grande classified as?

• Ephemeral

• Perennial

• Seasonal

• Intermittent

What was the purpose of the Obama administration's 2015 report on watersheds?

• To establish new water laws

• To reduce water pollution

• To demonstrate the interconnectedness of water systems

• To promote industrial growth

What was a significant outcome of the Supreme Court cases in 2001 and 2006 regarding water protection?

• Stricter penalties for polluters

• Expansion of the Clean Water Act

• Exceptions for certain water bodies like wetlands and ponds

• Increased protection for all water bodies

What was the impact of the Trump administration's 2020 rule on water protection?

• Increased federal protection for waterways

• Reduced federal protection for intermittent and ephemeral waters

• No change in water protection policies

• Stricter regulations for polluters

How did the 2020 rule affect New Mexico's waterways?

• Improved water quality

• No impact on water protection

• Increased protection for all water bodies

• Significant reduction in federal protection

What was the primary reason for the Trump administration's reversal of the Clean Water Rule?

• To protect endangered species

• To improve water quality

• To expand federal oversight

• To appease industry leaders

What is the expected action of the Biden administration regarding water protection?

• To maintain the Trump administration's rule

• To introduce new water laws

• To eliminate all water protection laws

• To restore stricter protections from the Obama era

What is a potential challenge the Biden administration might face in restoring water protections?

• Legal challenges from industries

• Opposition from environmental groups

• Insufficient funding

• Lack of scientific evidence