What federal agency is responsible for regulating activities in wetlands under Section 404?

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is indeed the federal agency responsible for regulating activities in wetlands under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. This section specifically pertains to the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States, including wetlands. The Corps plays a critical role in administering the permitting process related to these activities, ensuring that they are conducted in a manner that protects water quality and the environment.

The agency evaluates permit applications to determine if proposed projects will significantly impact wetland areas and can impose conditions or deny permits based on potential environmental impacts. This oversight is crucial for maintaining the ecological integrity of wetlands, which provide vital habitats, flood protection, and water filtration.

Other agencies mentioned in the choices have roles related to environmental protection and wildlife management, but they do not have the specific regulatory authority afforded to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under Section 404. For instance, while the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency works closely with the Corps and has oversight responsibilities related to water quality, it does not directly manage the permitting process for wetland activities under this section.