House Bill 687 - Interbasin Transfer Amendments

• Redefines "river basin" in North Carolina water law to use United States Geological Survey cataloging units instead of the 1991 map reference, with 41 specific river basins listed by cataloging unit numbers.

• Removes the requirement for interbasin transfer certificates when water moves between subbasins within the same major river basin, though transfers between different major river basins still require Commission approval for 2 million gallons per day or more.

• Gives preference to transfers from one sub-basin to another within the receiving major river basin over transfers between different major river basins, except in cases of technical or economic infeasibility or adverse environmental impact.

• Updates provisions for environmental review, public notice requirements, and certificate conditions to reflect the new subbasin-based framework and to allow the Commission to amend certificates when alternative water sources become available within the receiving basin.

• Modifies basinwide water resources management plans and hydrologic model requirements to align with the new subbasin definitions and to require updates every 10 years to reflect changes in water quality, quantity, and scientific knowledge.