HB 1791 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 1ST SUB)

     Establishes two state commissions to be designated jointly as the Washington water resources commission, one for eastern Washington and one for western Washington.

     Designates the powers and duties of the state engineer.

     Declares an intent that water resource planning be done locally, at the watershed level.

     Establishes sixty-two watershed resource planning units.

     Transfers the authority of the department of ecology over water resources to the new commissions or the state engineer.

     Declares that conserved water may be transferred without limitation.

     Establishes procedures for seasonal or temporary changes in use of water from one irrigation district to another.

     Establishes procedures for the appeal of decisions of the water resources commissions or the state engineer.

     Limits the jurisdiction of the pollution control hearings board.

     Repeals RCW 43.21A.064 and 90.54.030.