§ 15-22-904 - Powers of the commission. - Arkansas Statutes

15-22-904. Powers of the commission.

The Arkansas Natural Resources Commission shall have all powers necessary to effectuate this subchapter, including the power to:

(1) Promulgate rules and regulations for groundwater classification and aquifer use, well spacing, issuance of groundwater rights within critical groundwater areas, and assessment of fees;

(2) Issue subpoenas for any witness to require attendance and testimony and production of relevant books, papers, or other records in any proceeding before the commission;

(3) Administer an oath to any witness in any hearing, investigation, or proceeding before the commission;

(4) At reasonable times, enter upon property for purposes of conducting investigations, studies, or enforcing this subchapter;

(5) Reduce or suspend notice and hearing requirements under this subchapter in times of an emergency;

(6) Issue orders to implement or enforce any of the provisions of this subchapter or regulations under this subchapter;

(7) Delegate any and all powers under this subchapter to the Executive Director of the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission or his or her designee;

(8) Delegate any powers under this subchapter to districts within a critical groundwater area;

(9) Provide technical assistance and establish guidelines which shall be followed by districts which have been granted powers under this subchapter;

(10) Resolve disputes between, approve regulations of, and hear appeals from decisions of districts to which the commission has delegated powers; and

(11) Provide cost share assistance from the Arkansas Water Development Fund not to exceed forty percent (40%) to persons for the installation of approved water conservation and development practices.