Oklahoma House Bill HB2609

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Water; defining terms; directing Oklahoma Water Resources Board to determine instream flows for certain rivers; effective date.

Impact

One of the significant impacts of HB2609 is the requirement for the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to reduce the amount of water available for permitting based on instream flow determinations. This means that any water previously designated for other uses cannot be utilized to satisfy the required flows for these treasured streams unless sufficient unallocated water exists. By mandating that water allocations must first satisfy ecological and recreational needs, the bill emphasizes the importance of sustainability in water use.

Summary

House Bill 2609 aims to protect and manage the water resources of Oklahoma through the establishment of an instream flow program specifically for designated 'treasured streams.' The bill defines key terminologies, such as 'treasured stream,' which includes rivers that are crucial habitats for endangered species or are recognized as scenic rivers. The Oklahoma Water Resources Board is tasked with determining the necessary flow levels to preserve these streams, thereby ensuring the conservation of fish, wildlife, and recreational opportunities.

Contention

Throughout the legislative discussions, there may be points of contention surrounding the balance between water conservation efforts and the demands of agricultural or industrial water users. Stakeholders may express concerns over potential restrictions on water access for agricultural producers and businesses that depend on water for their operations. Additionally, the bill establishes treasured stream committees, which will include various stakeholders, representing an attempt to involve a diverse range of interests in the decision-making process. However, the effectiveness of this collaboration could be challenged by differing priorities among those directly affected by instream flow adjustments.