Bill > HF3579

This bill modifies the water appropriation allocation priorities in Minnesota. The first priority is now divided into four categories: (i) domestic water supply, excluding industrial and commercial uses, (ii) use at hospitals and nursing homes, (iii) use at schools and child care facilities, and (iv) use for power production that meets contingency planning provisions. The second priority remains the same, while the third priority has been expanded to include processing of agricultural products involving consumption in excess of 10,000 gallons per day. The bill also encourages the appropriation and use of surface water from streams during periods of flood flows and high water levels, while discouraging the appropriation and use of surface water from lakes smaller than 500 acres in surface area. The treatment and reuse of water for non-consumptive uses is also encouraged.