Water applicants would explain how plans offset harm to others

Applicants using mitigation in a water-use permit or water-right change application would submit a plan. Plans would explain project operations and where and when offset water would be used. Applicants would need proof of available water, required water-quality permits, and any needed application to change a water right. Plans using water to refill underground supplies would explain that process.

State officials could not require more offset water than needed to address harm to people with earlier water rights or show water can legally be used. The limit would cover applicants using mitigation plans, including plans that refill underground water supplies. A water right relying on an offset plan would require the plan to operate whenever that right is used.