ok-1146: Oklahoma Water Resources Board — Taking and Use of Groundwater

Summary

The staff of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board ("OWRB") is proposing amended or new rules in Oklahoma Administrative Code ("OAC") 785:30 as follows: OAC 785:30-3-1(c)(1) is proposed to clean up language and clarify existing and proposed well locations on the application. OAC 785:30-5-8(b) is proposed to drop the notary requirement on a signature to surrender a water right. OAC 785:30-7-4(a)(2) is proposed to drop the language referring to Appendix A, since that appendix was previously removed from the rules. OAC 785:30-7-4(b) is being proposed to remove language allowing a permit holder to drill a replacement well without notifying the OWRB. This language change is a result of the addition of an intent-to-drill process implemented in fiscal year 2023 requiring well drillers to notify the OWRB when a well requiring a water right is intended to be drilled. OAC 785:30-7-8 is proposed to be revoked, which has allowed permit holders to report all of their water use on one permit instead of the location where the water was withdrawn. This rule change will allow for more accurate data regarding water use in Oklahoma. OAC 785:30-13-5(c) proposes to take out the 600-ft spacing requirement from municipal lands for drilling municipal wells as a result of a change in 82 O.S. §1020.21. OAC 785:30 Appendix D is being proposed to add and update locations of springs in the Arbuckle-Simpson Groundwater Basin. Other amendments may be considered or proposed as a result of public comments.

The agency’s own summary, as published.