SF0050

Requires the state engineer to conduct groundwater studies in counties with water control areas at least once every ten years and appropriates funds for an initial study.

• Requires the state engineer to conduct a groundwater study at least once every ten years in each county with a control area designated by the board of control. The study must determine water consumption and controls necessary to maintain groundwater recharge. (W.S. 41-3-939, Sec. 1)
• Authorizes the groundwater study to include mapping and drilling of test wells to assess water resources. (W.S. 41-3-939, Sec. 1)
• Permits the state engineer to conduct groundwater studies in counties without a designated control area if the state engineer deems it necessary. (W.S. 41-3-939, Sec. 1)
• Requires the state engineer to make study results public and report findings to the joint agriculture, state and public lands and water resources interim committee within 15 days of completion. (W.S. 41-3-939, Sec. 1)
• Sets June 30, 2028 as the deadline for completing the initial groundwater study required under the new statute. (Sec. 2)
• Appropriates $250,000 from the general fund to the state engineer's office for conducting the groundwater studies, valid from the effective date through June 30, 2028, with unexpended funds reverting to the general fund. (Sec. 2)

Effective: July 1, 2026

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