The bill amends K.S.A. 82a-745 to establish a framework for creating water conservation areas through consent agreements between water right owners and the chief engineer. Key provisions include the requirement for a management plan that outlines geographic boundaries, the consent of participating water right owners, findings related to water conservation needs, and compliance monitoring. The bill also allows for corrective control provisions, such as closing areas to further groundwater appropriation and determining permissible withdrawal limits. Additionally, it provides for flexibility in water management through multi-year flex accounts and emphasizes the importance of not impairing existing water rights.

Furthermore, the bill amends K.S.A. 82a-1906 to enhance notification processes regarding water right applications and orders, ensuring that landowners within a specified distance are informed. It removes previous requirements for notifications to be coordinated with groundwater management districts and mandates that the division of water resources publish relevant information on its official website. The bill also repeals existing statutes K.S.A. 82a-745 and 82a-1906, streamlining the legal framework for water conservation efforts in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: