The following comments pertain to: 

Re: “Petition for Establishment of a Regulation or Policy Interpreting the Definition of a Nontidal Wetland Under 9VAC25-830-40, 9VAC25-830-80

I strongly object to the change request of the petition recently submitted to the water control board.  I believe protection of tidal AND non-tidal wetlands is extremely important for the health of our state waterways.   Having lived most of my life on and near the James River, I have witnessed a decline in water quality which results in a decline of marine life.  We need stronger waterway protections not a move in the opposite and more damaging direction.  

I strongly support the CBPA regulations and do NOT believe the Sackett decision was meant to prevent states and localities for protecting our waterways.  We need to strengthen and support protections for both tidal and nontidal wetlands.  

I hope the water control board members will do the right thing for the right reasons and deny the petition.  

Patricia VonOhlen, Newport News, VA