Public entities could use existing water routes to recharge aquifers

A holder may let a state, tribe, local government, or public entity use an existing authorization for aquifer recharge. The existing right-of-way, easement, permit, or other authorization must be used for aquifer recharge on behalf of a state, its local government, an Indian tribe, or a public entity. The holder must notify the Bureau of Land Management at least 30 days before the use and provide the required information and agreement. The bill text says the use does not require additional authorization from the Secretary and is not treated as an expansion, modification, major federal action, or substantial deviation. The holder must send notice to the Bureau of Land Management at least 30 days before the planned use.

Covered aquifer recharge use is exempt from additional rent to the Bureau of Land Management. The exemption covers use of an existing right-of-way, easement, permit, or other authorization for aquifer recharge. The exemption does not apply to for-profit aquifer recharge uses or for-profit entities.

The bill text says the covered provisions do not waive certain federal environmental laws or authorize construction, changes, or expansion of infrastructure. This statement concerns holders of the existing routes or permits described for aquifer recharge. The listed laws are the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.