The bill seeks to revise Montana's groundwater laws by updating exceptions from water right permitting, establishing protocols for aquifer closure and monitoring, and revising the designation of controlled groundwater areas. Key amendments include new rules for the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation regarding the installation and maintenance of measuring devices for water appropriation, as well as a requirement for owners or operators of appropriation facilities to report data. Notably, the bill specifies that a permit is not required for certain appropriations within the Rye Creek stream depletion zone in Ravalli County, provided they meet specific criteria. It also emphasizes the importance of metering and reporting for new water rights and authorizations, with penalties for noncompliance.

Additionally, the bill removes restrictions on requiring meters for water wells outside controlled groundwater areas unless certain conditions are met, and clarifies that appropriations from developed springs or wells do not require a permit under specific circumstances. The legislation introduces provisions for the designation of controlled groundwater areas focused on public health and safety, and allows for temporary controlled groundwater areas to facilitate necessary studies. It mandates metering for new water rights and establishes a process for municipalities to petition for controlled groundwater areas based on evidence of contamination. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the regulation and protection of Montana's groundwater resources while respecting existing water rights.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 85-2-113, 85-2-306, 85-2-381, 85-2-506, 85-2-524
SB0358_1: 85-2-113, 85-2-306, 85-2-381, 85-2-506, 85-2-524