This bill proposes to amend current statutes regarding the use of groundwater in active management areas (AMAs) by expanding the classification of non-irrigation uses. Under the new provisions, the use of groundwater to water plants grown using hydroponics and wine grapes would be explicitly included as non-irrigation uses, alongside the existing allowance for watering plants in containers. The bill also stipulates that individuals holding a certificate of irrigation grandfathered right (IGFR) may withdraw groundwater for these new uses, provided the plants are grown for sale, human consumption, or as feed for livestock.

Additionally, the bill introduces several regulatory measures to ensure that the total amount of groundwater used for these purposes does not exceed the irrigation water duty for the farm. It prohibits the registration of credits to the flexibility account for farms using groundwater for all plants or wine grapes, and it requires the separation of certificates into two distinct certificates when requested by the IGFR holder. This separation must ensure that one certificate pertains to the acres where groundwater is used for the newly defined non-irrigation purposes. Overall, the bill aims to modernize and clarify the regulations surrounding groundwater use in Arizona's agricultural practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-465.04
House Engrossed Version: 45-465.04