Watermaster bill advances in Legislature

A bill that could provide some relief to water rights holders in Shasta, Siskiyou and other counties that have been floored by skyrocketing watermaster fees is gaining ground in the state Senate.

The California Cattlemen's Association explains:

The week of April 9th marked a small step towards success for CCA sponsored bill SB 1247, authored by Senator Ted Gaines (R- Rocklin). The bill, which would reestablish a critical funding pathway for the state’s Watermaster Program, passed the Senate Natural Resources Committee with bipartisan support.

“The Program is vital to the success of California’s farmers and ranchers and I thank the Committee for recognizing the importance of this bill,” said Gaines. “Allowing for partial funding of the Program provides not only a benefit to the water users, but it also helps to prevent the waste or unreasonable use of water – one of our most precious resources.”

The DWR is required by law to divide the state into watermaster service areas in order to distribute water according to certain water right determinations. Beginning in 2011, the state’s water rights holders were mandated to pay 100 percent of the costs associated with the administration and distribution of water. Prior to 2011, the DWR had funded at least 50 percent of the Program. Without the DWR’s assistance, costs to waters users have skyrocketed with some paying increases of up to 800 percent over previous costs.

Senate Bill 1247 seeks to provide some monetary relief to water users by allowing the DWR to again pay up to 50 percent of the Program costs should the funding be available up until January 1, 2014.

Senator Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) who serves as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Water supported the bill and expressed his appreciation to Senator Gaines for carrying the measure that impacts constituents in his North State district.

“Excessive state mandates are the reason watermaster rates have shot through the roof, so providing funding for the Program is a common-sense step forward,” said LaMalfa. “Senator Gaines’ bill will help relieve the pressure on family farmers and other rural water users, but we must remain vigilant against intrusive government agencies and mandates.”

Senate Bill 1247 now moves to the Senate Committee on Appropriations. The hearing date is pending.

For my story on the progress of this and other ag-related legislation, check CapitalPress.com soon.