This bill amends the Water Resources Protection Act in West Virginia by introducing new reporting requirements specifically for underground water extracted in growth counties. The secretary is tasked with establishing a plan that includes limitations on water extraction by commercial users to prevent adverse impacts on the underground water supply, particularly for residents and farmers who rely on wells. The bill emphasizes prioritizing groundwater use for individual residents and farmers, as well as activities on the land from which the water is drawn. Additionally, it clarifies that "extracted" refers to water taken from subsurface wells for commercial sale or shipment outside of West Virginia.

The bill also includes provisions for the secretary to develop definitions for terms used in the State Water Resources Management Plan, ensuring consistency across various state and federal entities. It mandates that large-quantity water users report their monthly water withdrawals, with specific deadlines for initial and subsequent reports. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the management and protection of water resources in West Virginia, particularly in areas experiencing growth and increased demand for water.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22-26-8