Which legislation gave the USACE the authority to issue permits for the dispersal of dredge or fill material in the U.S.?

The Federal Water Pollution Control Act, particularly through its amendments and subsequent legislation, empowered the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to regulate the discharge of dredged or fill material into navigable waters of the United States. This act serves as a critical foundation for maintaining water quality and protecting aquatic ecosystems. By establishing a framework for permitting processes, it ensures that any activity involving the introduction of materials into water bodies is carefully examined and can be managed to mitigate potential environmental impacts.

While the other legislation mentioned plays significant roles in environmental protection and regulation, they do not specifically address the permitting authority granted to the USACE regarding dredge or fill activities. The National Environmental Policy Act, for example, mandates environmental assessments but does not focus explicitly on the permitting of dredge or fill material. Similarly, the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act pertains to the conservation of fish and wildlife populations but does not grant regulatory authority in this specific context. Therefore, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act is clearly the legislation that provides USACE with the necessary authority for issuing permits in this area.