DE HB158

Transfers authority over water allocation permits for irrigation wells and surface water intakes on farms from the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control to the Department of Agriculture.

Establishes procedures for issuing water allocation permits that reserve rights to use up to 20 acre-inches of water per year (maximum 10 acre-inches per month), with one acre-inch defined as 27,154 gallons.

Requires the Department of Agriculture to establish procedures for issuing licenses or permits to construct, extend, or operate irrigation wells or surface water intakes on farmland.

Creates an advisory oversight committee chaired by the Secretary of Agriculture with members including representatives from the Farm Bureau, Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, irrigation dealers, well drillers, and both the Agriculture and Natural Resources departments.

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to issue water allocation permits to existing permit holders whose authorized water use is 20 acre-inches per year or less upon enactment.