Water resources; water-measuring devices for farm use of surface and ground water; revise provisions

Less farm meter paperwork and costs

For farm surface-water and groundwater permits, the law removes a meter rule tied to modifications, amendments, transfers, or assignments effective on or after April 20, 2018. When no meter was installed, that rule required installation and operation within one year, notice to the division, and approval. The law also removes the duty to pay for, install, and operate a meter and notify the division after five years when missing withdrawal or irrigation equipment prevented state installation. When no contractor is available, the division may use trained, certified staff to install meters through the state program at no charge. The division may also repair or replace meters at no charge when needed to meet water-use rules.