Bill > HB3364

This bill updates Oregon's water resource management and funding programs, primarily focusing on modifying grant and loan processes for water-related projects. The Water Resources Department will establish a grant program to fund studies evaluating feasibility of water projects, including water conservation, reuse, aquifer recharge, streamflow restoration, and other water-related activities. The bill expands eligible grant recipients to include persons, public bodies, federally recognized Indian tribes, and nonprofit organizations. It reduces the matching fund requirement from a dollar-for-dollar match to a 25% cost match and allows the Water Resources Commission to set maximum per-project funding amounts. The legislation also modifies the Water Supply Development Account's usage, application processes, and project scoring criteria to prioritize partnerships, diverse project types, and geographic locations. Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for establishing seasonally varying water flows, particularly for projects involving water storage or diversion, and mandates periodic reviews of water funding programs. The bill aims to improve water resource management, enhance environmental considerations, and provide more flexibility in water project development and funding.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3364