Legislative Water IssuesTask Force (2004-05)Utah Water
SummitNovember 30, 2005
Proposed Ground-Water LegislationPrior Appropriation
DoctrineSafe Yield ConceptAuthority for State Engineer Ground Water
Management PlansCritical Management AreasConsider economic
factorsImplement gradually
Definition of Safe YieldThe amount of groundwater that can be
withdrawn from a groundwater basin over a period of time without
exceeding the long term recharge of the basin or unreasonably
affecting the basins physical and chemical integrity.
The Basis for Groundwater Management PlansState engineer may
consider:Hydrology Physical characteristics Conjunctively
management of surface and groundwater Geographic spacing &
location of withdrawalsWater qualityLocal well interferenceOther
relevant factors
The Basis for Groundwater Management PlansManagement plans shall
be based on the principles of prior appropriation.The state
engineer shall use the best available scientific method to
determine safe yield.Safe yield may be revised as conditions change
or upon additional information.
The ExceptionsCritical Management AreasA groundwater basin in
which groundwater withdrawals consistently exceed the safe
yield.The management plan shall be implemented gradually to
minimize economic and other impacts on individuals & the
community.Voluntary Arrangements
Overview of the Legislative Water Task ForceEnforcement
Legislation 2004Task Force Activities 2005Very SuccessfulTask
ForceWater Community
