HB 2028
EB/KK Page 1 Natural Resources, Energy & Water
ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Fifty-sixth Legislature
Second Regular Session
HB 2028: groundwater model; unpledged storage credits
Sponsor: Representative Griffin, LD 19
Committee on Natural Resources, Energy & Water
Overview
Requires a groundwater model used by the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR)
to evaluate an application for an assured water supply assumes that any unpledged long-
term storage credits will be available for use.
History
The Groundwater Code’s Assured and Adequate Water Supply Program requires a developer
to provide information on a proposed subdivision’s water supplies to ADWR before the
property can be marketed. Specific requirements apply, depending on whether the
subdivision is inside or outside an AMA (A.R.S. § 45-576).
ADWR uses hydrologic models to simulate and predict groundwater conditions. Models
incorporate various assumptions to make long-term management decisions and predict
potential future impacts. An applicant for a determination of assured water supply is
required to submit a hydrologic study, using a method of analysis approved by the Director
of ADWR (A.C.C. R12-15-716(B)).
A groundwater model can include a variety of data relating to: 1) measurements of water
levels over time; 2) physical availability of water; 3) natural recharge and discharge rates; 4)
water level decline rates and trends; 5) projected water demand associated with the project;
6) the proposed source of supply; and 7) an evaluation of existing uses (ADWR Hydrologic
Guidelines).
Long term storage credits are earned when eligible water is stored underground for more
than one year. When recovered, the credits can be used to fulfill replenishment obligations
or to establish an assured water supply (ADWR Underground Water Storage, Savings and
Replenishment).
Provisions
1. Requires the Director of ADWR to ensure that any modeling that is used to determine
groundwater levels assumes unpledged long-term storage credits will be available for use
when evaluating an application for a certificate or designation of an assured water supply.
☐ Prop 105 (45 votes) ☐ Prop 108 (40 votes) ☐ Emergency (40 votes) ☐ Fiscal Note