AZ HB2896

Allows county boards of supervisors outside active management areas to designate groundwater basins or subbasins as "rural management areas" if conditions such as increased water use, declining water levels, or depleting groundwater supplies exist.

Requires counties to provide public notice, hold at least two public meetings, and allow 30 days for public comment before designating a rural management area by majority vote.

Establishes a five-member rural management area advisory council appointed by the governor to develop management goals, analyze best management practices, and submit a management plan to the Department of Water Resources director.

Authorizes the advisory council to recommend voluntary or mandatory conservation programs, groundwater monitoring and reporting systems, and aquifer recharge initiatives to achieve management goals.

Allows the department director to approve, reject, or request revisions to submitted management plans within 30 days after holding a hearing, with approved plans becoming enforceable in the designated area.