Though much of the news out of Salem involves discussion of the budget and shortfalls, the 2009 Legislature is considering some important water bills with an immediate impact on water use in Oregon. The summary below includes three water bills that are of interest. We encourage you to contact your Senator or Representative regarding your support, objection or suggested amendment to any of these bills.You can find contact information here: http://www.leg.state.or.us/findlegsltr/
SB 740: Provides for the Water Resources Department to charge an annual fee on holders of water rights. The fee proposed is between $50 – $300 for individuals and up to $1,200 for larger entities. The purpose of the fee is to create an operating fund for the Water Resources Department which currently receives 70 – 75% of its budget from the general fund. The bill proposes that failure to pay the annual fee will be grounds for cancellation of the water right.
SB 787: Proposes to require water providers (municipal and domestic) and agricultural users to comply with water conservation practices before receiving public funds for water projects. The compliance requirements would apply to existing and new projects.
SB 788: Proposes to require all water diversions projects to contain provisions to protect peak water flows to maintain stream heath and habitat prior to permitting by the Water Resources Department.
You can read the full text of these bills by visiting: http://www.leg.state.or.us/bills_laws/
