This bill proposes to amend current statutes regarding the withdrawal of groundwater for domestic purposes and stock watering by individuals holding a certificate of irrigation grandfathered right (IGFR). Under the current law, only those with an IGFR in an initial active management area (AMA) can withdraw up to 10 acre-feet of groundwater annually for these purposes. The bill expands this right to include individuals with an IGFR in any AMA, thereby broadening the scope of eligible groundwater users. The bill also updates the terminology from "stockwatering" to "stock watering" for consistency and clarity.

Additionally, the bill modifies the conditions under which groundwater can be withdrawn. It changes the reference date for the use of groundwater from June 12, 1980, to the date of the designation of the active management area, allowing for more flexibility in the application of the law. The bill maintains existing provisions regarding the measurement and reporting of groundwater use, ensuring that withdrawals for domestic purposes and stock watering do not exceed the specified limit and remain compliant with conservation requirements. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the rights of groundwater users while ensuring sustainable management practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 45-465.03