SB 1153 Restricts transfer of water rights

Directs the Water Resources Department to consider whether certain water right transfers will result in a loss of in-stream habitat for sensitive, threatened or endangered aquatic species in stream reaches not protected by an existing water right or contribute to water quality impairment in water quality limited streams. Directs the department to provide an opportunity for tribes to review certain…

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SB 1154A Expansion of restrictions over water rights

Makes changes to laws about areas with ground water quality problems. Modifies provisions of law related to declarations of ground water quality concern areas and ground water management areas. Directs the Governor to appoint an agency or agencies to lead an interagency team in ground water quality concern areas and ground water management areas. Provides that ground water management committees…

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HB 3419-3 Extends authority of Water Resources Dept. on existing owners

Amendment 3 is a gut-and-stuff. It will standardize and grow the authority of the Water Resources Department. It may cost share at 75% for eligible owners but no funding source is guaranteed. It targets existing owner water rights. HB 3573 is the appropriations bill. Testimony pointed out how the WRD has not utilized the current data they hold and would…

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