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concerns of the nation and go beyond water quality alone to deal with issues such as 

 wetland restoration, endangered species habitat protection and restoration and aquifer and 

 groundwater protection. USDA needs flexibility, not more restrictive legislation. 



As we have indicated, USDA supports the emphasis on a watershed approach for nonpoint 

 source control. This is largely consistent with the direction already taken by the Forest 

 Service and the Soil Conservation Service in implementing new ecosystem strategies for 

 natural resource management. Control of nonpoint sources can be best achieved if 

 approached in a holistic manner through watershed management. An analysis of watershed 

 conditions, and an understanding of the relationships of land management activities on the 

 water resource, allow a meaningful way to allocate and distribute land management 

 activities in an efficient and effective manner. 



I believe that, given clear and consistent guidance and flexibility, American farmers and 

 ranchers will make the right decisions for wetiands and water quality up and down this 

 nation's watersheds. 



I appreciate tiie opportunity to testify today and we will be happy to respond to your 

 questions. 



