SB 6018 - DIGEST

     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.

     Declares that the purpose of this act is to stimulate the use of water-efficient irrigation systems by allowing the saved water to be voluntarily transferred by the water right holder.  Additionally, the purpose is to allow private, as well as public, investment 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 that sufficient protections be provided to assure that existing water users are not adversely affected by transfers approved under this act.