IA advocacy leads to EPA pause in development of WaterSense spray sprinkler nozzle specification

IA advocacy leads to EPA pause in development of WaterSense spray sprinkler nozzle specification

The Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., has announced it is pausing development of a WaterSense specification for spray sprinkler nozzles. This move comes after receiving feedback from stakeholders, including the Irrigation Association, utilities, manufacturers and environmental groups.

The draft specification, initially released in November 2023, proposed criteria for spray sprinkler nozzles to earn the WaterSense label. It focused on water efficiency and performance metrics such as application rates, distribution uniformity and matched precipitation.

However, public comments highlighted a lack of consensus on some of these criteria, prompting the EPA to shift its approach.

Nathan Bowen, policy and industry advancement vice president at the Irrigation Association, says the association appreciates the EPA’s decision to pause development.

“This provides the industry with the opportunity to contribute to a stakeholder-driven standard setting process,” he says. “We believe this approach will result in more effective solutions tailored to reflect the realities of the irrigation industry.”

Industry to lead specification development

The IA has recommended developing a voluntary, consensus-based standard that would establish performance attributes and test methods for high-efficiency spray sprinkler nozzles. Bowen says this collaborative effort will ensure any future specifications are grounded in sound science and industry best practices.

“We are committed to working towards a standard that not only supports water conservation but is also achievable for manufacturers and beneficial for contractors and consumers,” Bowen says.

Addressing industry concerns

One of the key points of contention in the draft specification was the proposed application rate of 1.2 inches per hour. While this benchmark was designed to promote water savings, some manufacturers and practitioners raised concerns about its feasibility and the potential impact on product design and system flexibility.

The IA has emphasized that the industry needs time to explore alternative performance measures and develop solutions that address these challenges. “This pause allows us to take a closer look at what truly defines efficiency and how we can ensure these standards work in real-world applications,” Bowen says.

Next steps

While the EPA has paused its specification development, the agency will continue working with the IA and other stakeholders to support the standard-setting process. If the industry cannot reach a consensus within a reasonable timeframe, the EPA may revisit its original draft criteria.

In the meantime, utilities are encouraged to use the draft specification’s application rate criteria as a guideline for rebate programs. According to the EPA, this threshold aligns with attributes used by manufacturers to identify high-efficiency nozzles.

Bowen says the IA remains committed to advancing water-use efficiency in the irrigation sector. “The industry has an important role to play in ensuring our water resources are managed wisely,” he says. “By taking the lead on this specification, we can set a strong foundation for future innovation and sustainability.”

IA hosts post-election webinars

The Irrigation Association hosted the first two of its three-part Post-Election Webinar Series, with the third installment scheduled for April 29.

The first webinar, held on Dec. 10, 2024, discussed the implications of recent political shifts on the irrigation industry. The session provided an overview of key legislative and regulatory changes, as well as opportunities for businesses to engage in advocacy efforts.

Led by industry advocates, the webinar explored the evolving congressional landscape, the administration’s policy priorities and other developments that could shape the future of water management, labor and trade within the irrigation sector.

The second webinar, held Jan. 22, focused on state-level legislative developments impacting the irrigation industry. The 30-minute session explored emerging state policies and trends in water management, labor and trade, as well as state government priorities that intersect with the irrigation industry. The webinar provided insights into opportunities for advocacy at the local level.

“The changes we’re seeing in Washington will have real-world effects on irrigation businesses,” said Nathan Bowen, vice president of policy and industry advancement for the Irrigation Association. “This webinar series is an opportunity to understand what’s ahead and how to take action to ensure our industry’s needs are addressed.”

Recordings of the Dec. 10 and Jan. 22 webinars are available for on-demand viewing, and free registration is open for the April 29 webinar. All information and video and registration links are available on the IA’s Irrigation Advocacy Insights webpage.

IA advocacy updates

Corporate Transparency Act Filing Requirements Still on Hold

The Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the federal government in Texas Top Cop Shop, Inc. v. McHenry by lifting a nationwide injunction against the Corporate Transparency Act and reporting requirements remain on hold for now. A separate injunction from Smith v. U.S. Department of the Treasury still blocks enforcement, providing temporary relief for small businesses.

The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network has clarified the current status, stating:

“Reporting companies are not required to file beneficial ownership information with FinCEN while the Smith order remains in effect. Companies are also not liable for failing to file during this time.”

While this is a welcome reprieve, the situation remains complex. The Smith injunction is not automatically affected by the Supreme Court’s decision, leaving the Trump administration and Congress in a position to act. Key members of the administration, including Vice President J.D. Vance and Linda McMahon, Secretary of Education nominee, have voiced opposition to the CTA, signaling possible action to delay or repeal the law.

The Irrigation Association joined several other organizations this week in urging congressional leaders to repeal the CTA.

What does this mean for your business?

• temporary relief: Businesses are not required to file beneficial ownership reports while the Smith injunction remains in place.

• ongoing uncertainty: FinCEN may appeal the Smith ruling or clarify enforcement timelines if the injunction is lifted. This creates a fluid regulatory environment.

• advocacy efforts continue: Legislation to repeal the CTA has been reintroduced in Congress, and the IA is actively working to protect small businesses from unnecessary compliance burdens.

Next steps

We remain hopeful for a more permanent administrative delay or repeal. The IA is engaging with the Trump administration and Congress to ensure the interests of small businesses and the irrigation industry are safeguarded. Our focus is to eliminate the undue burden imposed by the CTA and create a more stable regulatory framework.

Supporting businesses through the Main Street Tax Certainty Act

The Irrigation Association is proud to announce its support for the Main Street Tax Certainty Act of 2025, introduced by Senator Steve Daines and Representative Lloyd Smucker. This critical legislation aims to make permanent the 20% deduction for small- and family-owned businesses under Section 199A of the tax code.

Why this matters

Pass-through businesses are the backbone of the American economy, comprising 95% of all businesses and employing 63% of private sector workers. These businesses play a pivotal role in strengthening communities nationwide. However, the Section 199A deduction is set to expire at the end of 2025, potentially putting 2.6 million jobs at risk, according to a recent EY study.

Making this deduction permanent will
• level the playing field: Allow Main Street businesses to better compete with large corporations.

• stimulate economic growth: Contribute to job creation and higher investment across the country.

• provide stability: Give small businesses the certainty they need to focus on growth rather than tax hikes.

IA’s role in supporting this effort

The IA has joined other key business groups in signing a letter supporting the Main Street Tax Certainty Act. We remain committed to advocating for policies that benefit small businesses, ensuring they can thrive and continue contributing to a strong economy.