The proposed bill would update Arizona's groundwater management statutes by establishing a maximum annual groundwater withdrawal limit of six acre-feet per acre for legally irrigated land from non-exempt wells in Irrigation Non-Expansion Areas (INAs), a new requirement not currently in law. It would also allow for the substitution of irrigated acres and the replacement of non-exempt wells under specific conditions, providing flexibility for landowners while ensuring that overall groundwater withdrawals do not increase. Additionally, the bill would introduce penalties for violations of the withdrawal limit and modify existing exemptions related to water measuring devices.

Moreover, the bill would remove certain types of water from the allowed sources for irrigation after the designation of a subsequent INA and establish new requirements for measuring devices in these areas. It would reduce the penalty for failing to file a report to the Director from $150 to $125 and create new exemptions for small-scale irrigation operations. The bill amends section 45-437 and introduces section 45-437.04, which clarifies that correctional facilities may irrigate up to ten acres for producing plants for inmate consumption without being subject to the six-acre-feet limit. Overall, these changes aim to enhance groundwater management and conservation while accommodating agricultural needs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-437, 45-437.04, 45-431, 45-172, 45-437.01, 45-437.02, 45-437.03, 45-432, 35-146, 35-147
House Engrossed Version: 45-437, 45-437.04, 45-431, 45-172, 45-437.01, 45-437.02, 45-437.03, 45-432, 35-146, 35-147