Brief Description: Concerning small irrigation impoundments.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Energy & Water (originally sponsored by Senators Parlette, Morton, Doumit, Honeyford and Hale).

Hearing Date: 3/14/03

Staff: Kenneth Hirst (786-7105).

Background:

The water code requires reservoir permits for both surface reservoirs for water and for the storage of water in an underground formation for subsequent use as part of an underground artificial storage and recovery project. A water right permit, called a "secondary" permit, is also required for the use of the water stored in a surface reservoir. (RCW 90.03.370.)

Summary of Bill:

Small irrigation impoundments are exempted from the reservoir and secondary use permit requirements of the water code. The exempted impoundments are lined surface storage ponds less than 10 acre feet in volume used to impound irrigation water under an existing water right. Use of the impoundment must be to facilitate the efficient use of water or to promote compliance with an approved recovery plan for endangered or threatened species. Its use must not expand the number of acres irrigated or the annual consumptive quantity of water used.

Within these limitations, water remaining in such an impoundment at the end of an irrigation season may be carried over for use in the next season. The development and use of a small irrigation impoundment does not constitute a change or amendment of the water right involved.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not Requested.

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