Relating to the management, operation, and review of groundwater conservation districts and to the potential impact of districts' rules and plans on the Carrizo-Wilcox aquifer.
Impact
The bill mandates that groundwater conservation districts must create and implement management plans that address vital goals such as efficient groundwater use, waste prevention, and drought mitigation. It establishes a clear procedure for developing these management plans and stipulates necessary training for directors and general managers of the districts, which includes topics such as hydrogeology and effective conservation practices. This training requirement is intended to ensure that those overseeing groundwater management are adequately prepared to make informed decisions on resource allocation and protection.
Summary
SB2120 addresses the management, operation, and review processes of groundwater conservation districts in Texas. It aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of managing groundwater resources by requiring that districts establish comprehensive management plans that must be reviewed and approved by the Texas Water Development Board. The bill emphasizes collaboration between districts within the same management area, thus promoting unified water resource management practices that can adapt to varying local conditions while safeguarding the shared aquifer systems.
Contention
Notably, SB2120 introduces strict compliance measures that can impact districts failing to adopt or maintain an approved management plan. The commission may take corrective actions, including issuing orders or even dissolving districts if necessary. This provision indicates a strong stance on ensuring that groundwater resources are optimally managed, but it has raised concerns among some stakeholders about the potential for overreach and the ramifications for smaller districts that may struggle with compliance due to limited resources or expertise.
Relating to the procedures for acting on a permit or permit amendment application by a groundwater conservation district and the disqualification of board members of groundwater conservation districts.
Relating to the procedures for acting on a permit or permit amendment application by a groundwater conservation district and the disqualification of board members of groundwater conservation districts.
Relating to the transfer of the administration of surface water rights permitting from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to the Texas Water Development Board and the regulation of groundwater; authorizing fees; authorizing civil penalties.