Water and water rights; creating Charlette Hearne Heritage River Act; granting Oklahoma Water Resources Board authority over act and rule promulgation; protecting public recreational use of certain river. Effective date.
Impact
The Charlette Hearne Heritage River Act will significantly affect state laws concerning water rights and management. The bill explicitly prohibits the impoundment of designated heritage rivers for industrial purposes and restricts the sale or transfer of water from these rivers. Furthermore, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board is granted authority to enforce these provisions and manage public access to the rivers, which could enhance recreational opportunities while ensuring environmental protection.
Summary
Senate Bill 14, known as the Charlette Hearne Heritage River Act, aims to designate and protect certain rivers within Oklahoma, specifically focusing on the Glover River in McCurtain County. This bill outlines the characteristics of a 'heritage river' as any river or stream that has been free-flowing and undammed throughout Oklahoma's statehood. By defining this term, the bill seeks to maintain the natural state of these rivers, thereby preserving their environmental and recreational values for future generations.
Contention
Points of contention surrounding SB14 include potential conflicts between agricultural interests and the protection of heritage rivers. While the bill states that it will not unduly restrict agricultural practices in the river basin, critics may argue about the practical implications of such restrictions on farming and ranching activities. Additionally, the clarification of rights for landowners adjacent to these heritage rivers could lead to disputes regarding access and usage, as existing property rights remain unchanged under this new legislation.
Carry Over
Water and water rights; creating Charlette Hearne Heritage River Act; granting Oklahoma Water Resources Board authority over act and rule promulgation; protecting public recreational use of certain river. Effective date.
Waters and water rights; authorizing the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to implement certain allocation to encourage conservation after certain date; effective date.
Waters and water rights; authorizing the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to enter into memorandums of understanding or contracts with certain entities; effective date.
Waters and water rights; authorizing the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to enter into memorandums of understanding or contracts with certain entities; effective date.
Water and water rights; creating the Oklahoma Regional Water District Act; requiring development and coordination of certain districts for promulgation of regional water plans. Effective date.
Water and water rights; creating the Oklahoma Regional Water District Act; requiring development and coordination of certain districts for promulgation of regional water plans. Effective date.
Waters and water rights; stating legislative findings; creating the Oklahoma Water Resources Board Well Driller and Pump Installer Program; effective date.