HI HB1228

Establishes a statewide water development study for agricultural uses to be conducted by the department of agriculture in accordance with Hawaii Revised Statutes chapter 167.

Study shall analyze existing and future water resources including surface water capacity, subsurface water capacity, and other water-producing facilities available for commercial farm use.

Study must develop a geographical information system, identify support facilities for water storage and distribution, compute water demand projections, and propose alternative management concepts for irrigation water systems.

Creates a water development study special fund administered by the department of agriculture to be funded by legislative appropriations, federal funds, and interest earned on fund balances.

Appropriates unspecified sums from general revenues for fiscal years 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 to establish the fund and prepare the study; effective July 1, 2011.