NV AB134

Holders of perfected water rights may submit voluntary water conservation plans to the State Engineer for approval, with plan terms not exceeding 10 years and renewable for additional 10-year periods.

Water rights subject to an approved conservation plan are protected from abandonment and forfeiture proceedings, but holders cannot change the place of diversion, manner of use, or place of use during the plan term.

The State Engineer may not charge fees for conservation plan submissions but may require periodic reporting on the amount of water conserved under approved plans.

State policy is amended to promote voluntary water conservation through practices including conservation plans, crop rotation or conversion, improved irrigation practices, and reductions in surface and seepage losses.

New water appropriation permits must be rejected if the proposed use conflicts with existing rights subject to water conservation plans, and such rights must be protected when the State Engineer grants groundwater permits.