HB 3800
Renames the "Greater Harney Valley Groundwater Area of Concern" the "Harney Basin Groundwater Management Area."
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Sign in to take actionPublic sentiment
Support
6%
Oppose
94%
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill officially changes the name of the "Greater Harney Valley Groundwater Area of Concern" to the "Harney Basin Groundwater Management Area." It establishes a program to help homeowners in this area replace, repair, or deepen wells affected by declining groundwater levels. The bill also grants the Water Resources Department authority to modify water rights, manage groundwater use, and develop a comprehensive groundwater management plan for the Harney Basin.
Key provisions
- Establishes a program to replace, repair, or deepen domestic wells impacted by declining groundwater.
- Allows the Water Resources Department to modify water rights within the Harney Basin.
- Provides for the development and implementation of a groundwater management plan.
- Authorizes the department to curtail unauthorized groundwater use.
- Creates a ground water advisory committee.
- Defines the ‘Harney Basin Groundwater Management Area’ for legal purposes.
- Prioritizes grant funding for lower and moderate-income well owners.
- Allows for the abandonment of replaced wells.
Who is affected
- Homeowners with domestic wells in the Harney Basin
- The Water Resources Department
- Agricultural users of groundwater in the Harney Basin
- The Water Resources Commission
- Residents of Harney County, Oregon
Notable changes
- Renames the Groundwater Area of Concern to the Harney Basin Groundwater Management Area.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsors
Cosponsor
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of the proposed approach to address groundwater problems in Harney County emphasize the need for a balanced solution that prioritizes both environmental sustainability and agricultural interests. Many testifiers, including local farmers and ranchers, express concerns about the devastating consequences of over-allocation on their livelihoods and the community's ability to manage groundwater resources effectively. They advocate for a bill addressing groundwater overallocation in the Harney Basin, citing personal experience with water management and highlighting the importance of protecting this vital resource for agriculture. By supporting such legislation, proponents aim to ensure that future generations can continue to thrive in the region while also preserving the delicate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship.
Source: Testimony Summaries
Arguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
Opponents of House Bill 3800 express strong concerns that the legislation would have far-reaching and devastating impacts on Oregon, particularly in rural communities such as Harney County. that the bill's provisions would lead to increased consolidation of farms, negatively impacting local economies and food systems, while also undermining existing water rights and potentially leading to unconstitutional takings of real property rights. Many express opposition to the bill's language, citing a lack of scientific evidence supporting its changes and the potential for unintended environmental consequences. Additionally, that the bill would infringe on individual property rights, particularly with regards to metering and monitoring of water usage on private property, and that government overreach on water rights would lead to economic, property value, and revenue losses for the state.