This bill mandates the Department of Natural Resources and the Division of Soil Conservation and Water Quality to publish disaggregated data on surface water quality measurements, specifically focusing on contributions from nonpoint sources. The new legal language establishes a definition for the "division" and requires the agencies to provide detailed reports that delineate water quality measurements according to designated use segments, which are defined as water bodies capable of supporting aquatic communities. These reports must be made available on a jointly administered internet site.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing confidentiality provisions by clarifying that while information collected under this subchapter is generally confidential, it does not apply to data that delineates nonpoint sources contributing to designated use segments. This change ensures that relevant water quality data is accessible to the public, promoting transparency in clean water monitoring efforts. The bill also removes certain subsections from existing law that may have previously restricted the sharing of this information.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 466B.2, 466B.3, 466B.41, 466B.49