The bill mandates a legislative management study during the 2025-26 interim to evaluate the feasibility and desirability of managing water resources based on watershed boundaries instead of political subdivision boundaries. The study will examine various aspects, including management approaches used in neighboring states, the structure and responsibilities of watershed boards, dispute resolution processes for residents within watershed districts, and the role of the Department of Water Resources in defining watershed boundaries.
The findings and recommendations from this study, along with any necessary legislation to implement these recommendations, will be reported to the seventieth legislative assembly. This initiative aims to enhance water management practices by aligning them more closely with natural watershed areas.