90.42.130 - Water banking -- Input from affected entities -- Reports. - Washington Statutes

Water banking — Input from affected entities — Reports.

(1) The department shall seek input from agricultural organizations, federal agencies, tribal governments, local governments, watershed groups, conservation groups, and developers on water banking, including water banking procedures and identification of areas in Washington state where water banking could assist in providing water supplies for instream and out-of-stream uses. The department shall summarize any comments received on water banking and submit a report, including any recommendations, to the appropriate committees of the legislature for their consideration in the subsequent legislative session.

     (2) By December 31st of every even-numbered year, the department shall submit a report to the appropriate committees of the legislature on water banking activities authorized under RCW 90.42.100. The report shall:

     (a) Evaluate the effectiveness of water banking in meeting the policies and objectives of this chapter;

     (b) Describe any statutory, regulatory, or other impediments to water banking in other areas of the state; and

     (c) Identify other basins or regions that may benefit from authorization for the department to use the trust water [rights] program for water banking purposes.

[2003 c 144 § 5.]

Notes: Effective date -- 2003 c 144: See note following RCW 90.42.005.