SB 5527 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 1ST SUB)

     Finds that significant water savings could be realized through the installation of more efficient irrigation systems such as trickle irrigation systems where climatically and economically suitable.

     Finds that positive economic incentives, establishment of necessary legal procedures, and removal of legal barriers are needed to stimulate the development of workable technologies and farming systems that rely on lesser quantities of water.

     Allows the saved water to be voluntarily transferred by the water right holder to other uses.

     Declares an intent to establish incentives through enabling self-funded, private capital or public funds to provide improved market-based incentives for adopting water saving technologies and to allow the benefits of the conserved water to be fully realized.

     Declares an intent of this act that sufficient protections be provided to assure that existing water users are not adversely affected by transfers approved under this act.

     Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.