Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito led a hearing in Washington, D.C., focusing on the nominations of Brian Nesvik for Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Jessica Kramer for Assistant Administrator for the Office of Water at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Sean Donahue for General Counsel of the EPA. The hearing addressed key issues such as regulatory certainty and priorities relevant to West Virginia.

Senator Capito emphasized the importance of collaboration between federal agencies and state governments. She highlighted concerns from West Virginia officials about ineffective communication with FWS on local matters. Addressing Brian Nesvik, she asked him to share his experiences as Director of Wyoming Game and Fish regarding coordination with state regional FWS field offices.

Nesvik acknowledged past tensions between state and federal agencies but expressed confidence that his experience would aid in improving these relationships if confirmed. "I have had many years of opportunity to interact with and work directly with different employees of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service," he stated.

The discussion also covered Section Seven consultations under the Endangered Species Act, which are crucial in ensuring protection for threatened species during federal permitting processes. Capito noted frequent delays in meeting consultation deadlines, resulting in costly setbacks. In response, Nesvik committed to exploring efficiencies through technology to expedite these processes while safeguarding wildlife habitats.

Capito brought attention to the Muddy Creek Restoration Project in West Virginia, an initiative initially launched under the Trump administration that restored 19 miles of waterways affected by acid mine drainage using a cost-effective strategy. She questioned Jessica Kramer on how she would steer EPA’s water office towards similar results-driven approaches if confirmed.

Kramer expressed her intent to focus on innovation within regulatory frameworks at EPA's Office of Water. "The project you mentioned is an exact opportunity for us to try to replicate," she said, indicating potential expansion beyond West Virginia.

The hearing provided insights into how nominees plan to address environmental challenges while balancing regulatory obligations with innovative solutions.