Which legislation grants the federal government authority over navigable waters?

The Rivers and Harbors Act is the legislation that grants the federal government authority over navigable waters. This act primarily focuses on the regulation and management of waterways to facilitate navigation and protect the integrity of the United States' water infrastructure. It establishes federal jurisdiction over navigable waters to ensure they are kept open and free from obstructions that could hinder commerce and navigation.

By having this authority, the federal government can implement regulations and policies that assist in maintaining safe and navigable waterways, which is critical for transportation, industry, and environmental protection. This legislative framework has played a significant role in shaping U.S. waterway management practices by establishing standards for construction, dredging, and other activities affecting navigable waters.

The other pieces of legislation, while important in their own rights, focus on different aspects. The Clean Water Act is primarily concerned with regulating the pollutant discharges into U.S. waters and maintaining water quality standards, rather than directly addressing navigable waters. The Water Resources Development Act deals with water resource management, including flood control and ecosystem restoration, and the Endangered Species Act provides protections for endangered species and their habitats, but does not specifically grant authority over navigable waters.