"Waters of the United States: POTUS, SCOTUS, WOTUS, and the Politics of a National Resource " with Royal C. Gardner
Join Royal C. Gardner, the Professor of Law, Hugh F. Culverhouse Chair, and Director of the Stetson Institute for Biodiversity Law and Policy at Stetson Law, when he discusses his new book Waters of the United States: POTUS, SCOTUS, WOTUS, and the Politics of a National Resource, published by Island Press. In 2023, the Supreme Court made one of its most devastating rulings in environmental history in Sackett v. EPA. By narrowing the legal definition of ‘waters of the United States’ (WOTUS), the court gutted the heart of the Clean Water Act. The decision was the latest in a long series of battles over WOTUS, and which rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, wetlands, and perhaps even farm fields were to be protected by the Clean Water Act of 1972. His book not only examines how bodies of water are legally defined (and therefore protected), but who gets to decide on these definitions. The result is a fascinating look at the ongoing power struggle between the president and federal agencies, the courts, the states, and Congress over water quality.
About the Speaker:
Royal C. Gardner, the Hugh F. Culverhouse Professor of Law and Director of the Institute for Biodiversity Law and Policy at Stetson University College of Law, is an internationally recognized expert in wetland law and policy. He served as lead counsel on amicus briefs on behalf of aquatic scientists and scientific societies in Clean Water Act cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. His recognitions include a National Wetlands Award for Education and Outreach, and his institute is the recipient of the American Bar Association’s Award for Distinguished Achievement in Environmental Law and Policy. He is a member of the Board of Directors and the Policy and Science Committee of Friends of the Everglades.
This event is co-sponsored by the Hubbell Environmental Law Initiative, the Center for Health Effects of Environmental Contamination, and the College of Engineering.
On this Page:
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Event Program
Welcoming Remarks
Welcoming remarks will be given by Professor David Cwiertny in the Boyd Law Building at 12:45 PM.
Prepared Remarks
After introductions, prepared remarks will be given by Royal Gardner at 12:50 PM.
About Roy:
Royal C. Gardner, the Hugh F. Culverhouse Professor of Law and Director of the Institute for Biodiversity Law and Policy at Stetson University College of Law, is an internationally recognized expert in wetland law and policy. He served as lead counsel on amicus briefs on behalf of aquatic scientists and scientific societies in Clean Water Act cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. His recognitions include a National Wetlands Award for Education and Outreach, and his institute is the recipient of the American Bar Association’s Award for Distinguished Achievement in Environmental Law and Policy. He is a member of the Board of Directors and the Policy and Science Committee of Friends of the Everglades.
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Registration options
Frequently Asked Questions about HELI Events
Where is this event located?
The event will be held at the University of Iowa College of Law, which is located at 130 Byington Road, Iowa City, IA 52242. Attendance is available in person at the Boyd Law Building as well as virtually via Zoom.
Who should I contact if I have questions about this event?
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to Blake-Rupe@uiowa.edu.
Is this event in person or virtual?
This event is hybrid for attendees, which means attendees can choose between attending the session in-person in the Boyd Law Building or virtually on Zoom.
Both in person and virtual registration forms are above.
Is the event recorded or available for later viewing?
The event organizers will be recording the virtual Zoom session on video, so that it can be displayed and distributed on the event website and on HELI's Youtube page after the event is over. That video should be uploaded in the week after the event.
Is there parking available for event attendees?
Organizers highly recommend planning your arrival plans ahead of the event, as space by the Boyd Law Building is in short supply. The Boyd Law Building (BLB) has limited metered parking in front of the building. The meters can be paid using change or credit card via ParkMobile, a free mobile app. Learn more about the app here. For general information about parking and transportation at the College, the University, and in Iowa City, please see: Parking and Transportation.
Public parking for this event is readily available at the following lots
- Field House Lot (make sure to go in the Field House ramp entrance – NOT UIHC Parking Ramp 4)
- Parking Lot 14
For those parking in the lots, it is a short walk (1-3 blocks) to the BLB.
There are also UI Cambus buses and Iowa City Transit buses that run frequently to areas close and within walking distance of BLB. You can review that option by reviewing the UI Cambus schedules, the Iowa City Transit schedules, or by looking through the Transit app, which compiles that information into one location (the app).
We do have ADA reserved parking spots for those who require accessible parking. If you need accessible parking, please email Blake Rupe at blake-rupe@uiowa.edu as soon as possible to arrange accomodations for you.
Are food or beverages available for this event?
Food and beverages will be provided for those who register in advance for the in person attendance option. Please list any dietary limitations or considerations you would like organizers to have when you register for the event.
What should I bring for this event?
We welcome attendees bring a notebook and writing utensils for any reflection or note taking during the event. We also encourage you to bring a reusable water bottle and/or mug to use.
Is there a dress code for this event?
There is no special or specific dress code for this event, but it would be beneficial to dress in layers.
What are the guidelines for respectful participation by all parties?
The University of Iowa is strongly committed to an equitable and inclusive campus. Some of the views expressed through free speech can be offensive to members of our community. We encourage students, faculty, and staff to value diversity, engage in civil discourse, and be respectful of everyone that uses our shared space.
We expect all attendees to participate in this event respectfully. If you have questions or concerns about these policies, please contact HELI at lawmail-HELI@uiowa.edu to learn more.
Is there an agenda or program available for this event?
Event organizers will have updated the program for the day available at the sign in table and on this website.
What is the UI Policy for COVID-19 and Mask Use?
The University will continue to monitor local and national developments and rely on guidance from the Board of Regents, State of Iowa; the Iowa and Johnson County departments of public health (IDPH, JCPH); the Big Ten Conference; and the CDC.
Face masks are not required in most UI buildings, but welcome. Please note that UIHC and other health facilities have separate face covering guidelines. You should feel comfortable wearing a mask if you choose. Please be respectful of one another and do not pressure a student, visitor, or employee to wear, or not wear, a mask. Masks are available at the entrance to the Boyd Law Building and all UI buildings.
Please consider staying home or attending this event virtually if you have any symptoms of COVID-19 and/or if you test positive for COVID-19. The most up to date UI policy for COVID-19 is here.
Can I suggest speakers for future events?
Yes! HELI hosts 3-6 events each semester and we always welcome speakers who can speak knowledgeably about environmental issues. Contact lawmail-heli@uiowa.edu with your suggestions.
Are accomodations available for individuals with disabilities?
Yes! Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact the organizer in advance at lawmail-heli@uiowa.edu, or indicate your needs below and we will reach out to you.
Event Recording
The event video recording will be available here and on HELI's Youtube page after the event concludes.
