Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee

HB 1269

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Defining "crop rotation" for the purposes of RCW 90.14.140(1)(k).

Sponsors: Representatives Warnick, Chandler, Hinkle, Newhouse, Blake, Ross, Johnson and McCune.

Brief Summary of Bill

Changes the definition of "crop rotation" as it applies to water relinquishment to mean both the short or long-term change in the types of crops grown.

Hearing Date: 1/29/09

Staff: Jaclyn Ford (786-7339)

Background:

A water right is relinquished when the owner does not use all or a portion of his or her water for five consecutive years. However, the showing of a specific sufficient cause will negate the relinquishment. One of the sufficient causes to negate relinquishment is the reduction of water use resulting from crop rotation. "Crop rotation" is the temporary change in the type of crops grown resulting from the exercise of generally recognized sound farming practices [RCW 90.14.140].

Summary of Bill:

"Crop rotation" is defined as the short-term or long-term change in the type of crops grown.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.