Senate Bill 966 aims to regulate water diversion and elevation projects in towns by requiring town board approval for such activities. Specifically, the bill stipulates that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) cannot initiate, authorize, or issue permits for projects involving stationary or portable pumps that divert water or raise water elevation above natural levels unless the town board approves the project by resolution. This provision limits the DNR's existing authority to manage water levels and flow in navigable waters, particularly in cases where such actions could create artificial water bodies.

The bill also includes amendments to existing statutes, specifically adding a new section, 31.16, which outlines the requirement for town board approval for water diversion projects. Additionally, it amends sections 30.18 (8), 31.02 (1), and 87.02 (1) to incorporate the new approval requirement, ensuring that any project affecting navigable waters in a town adheres to this stipulation. The amendments clarify the DNR's responsibilities and the conditions under which it can raise water elevations or regulate water flow, emphasizing the importance of local governance in decisions impacting water resources.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 30.18(8), 30.18, 31.02(1), 31.02, 87.02(1), 87.02