As expected, President Obama yesterday vetoed a disapproval resolution passed by Congress that would have nullified the controversial clean water rule by EPA, better known as Waters of the U.S. or WOTUS.

“Because this resolution seeks to block the progress represented by this rule and deny businesses and communities the regulatory certainty and clarity needed to invest in projects that rely on clean water, I cannot support it,” the president said in his veto message.

Agricultural interests were quick to condemn the president’s action and vow to continue fighting the rule.

“We are extremely disappointed the President chose to side with the EPA, which has pulled out all the stops and shown an appalling disregard for the law throughout this rulemaking process,” said National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) president Philip Ellis. “In siding with the EPA, the President has ignored the will of Congress, including members of his own party. Moreover, he has taken side against the 32 states, and countless stakeholders who have challenged the WOTUS rule.”

NCBA and the Public Lands Council are among many groups that have filed lawsuits over the rule and a temporary nationwide stay on implementation of the WOTUS rule remains in effect.

“While the WOTUS rule remains at the EPA, we will continue to pursue litigation and legislation to bring about that certainty. This is a top priority for our members and today’s action shows that we have only begun our fight,” said Ellis.