Governor Signs Water Withdrawal Bill

Governor Cuomo has signed into law a measure requiring a state permit for the withdrawal of large volumes of water from the state’s rivers, lakes, streams and groundwater. The law requires state approval of any system with the capacity to withdraw 100,000 gallons or more per day.

The new law is expected to impact power plants, large manufacturing operations, ski resorts and some larger golf courses.

The new law directs the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to adopt regulations that will require applicants to demonstrate that their proposed withdrawal will not result in significant adverse impacts on the quantity or quality of the water source or on water-dependent natural resources. Applicants will also need to show that they have put in place comprehensive water conservation and efficiency measures

Environmentalists say that the new law is essential to prevent potential over-exploitation of the state’s water resources.