(1) This chapter is adopted under the authority of the Watershed Planning Act (chapter 90.82 RCW), Water Resources Act of 1971 (chapter 90.54 RCW), Minimum Water Flows and Levels Act (chapter 90.22 RCW), Water resource management (chapter 90.42 RCW), Regulation of public groundwaters (chapter 90.44 RCW) and the Water resources management program rule (chapter 173-500 WAC).

(2) This chapter, including any subsequent additions and amendments, applies to all surface waters in the Entiat River basin, and all groundwater hydraulically connected with those surface waters.

(3) This chapter shall not affect existing water rights, including perfected riparian rights, federal Indian and non-Indian reserved rights, or other appropriative rights existing on the effective date of this chapter, unless otherwise provided for in the conditions of the water right in question.

(4) This chapter does not limit the department's authority to establish flow requirements or conditions under other laws, including hydropower licensing under RCW 90.48.260.