DEC Issues Final Water Withdrawal Regulations

New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced today that they have finalized water withdrawal regulations. These regulations limit water withdrawals greater than 100,000 gallons per day, and expand the permitting program to include withdrawals for purposes including commercial, manufacturing and industrial activities.

The regulations go into effect April 13, 2013 with the first set of permit applications to be due on June 1. The regulations are being issued now so businesses will have adequate time to comply, the agency told the press in a release. They promise that DEC will collaborate with stakeholders on implementation of the regulations, and will provide outreach to guide applicants.

“Governor Cuomo signed this legislation to foster responsible conservation practices and economic growth while protecting water bodies and wildlife habitats,” DEC Commissioner Joe Martens told the press. “The regulations will allow the state to protect the environment while promoting economic growth and addressing droughts.”

Some withdrawals are exempt from permitting. For example, agricultural withdrawals that were properly registered or reported to DEC on or before February 15, 2012 need only to continue to annually register and report these withdrawals.

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