Groundwater: recharge.

Existing law declares that groundwater recharge is an effective way to maximize availability of scarce water supplies throughout the state. Existing law further declares that it is necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of the people of the state that the groundwater basins of the state be recharged. This bill would state the intent of the Legislature to enact subsequent legislation to capture floodwater to recharge groundwater basins and to require the Department of Water Resources and the State Water Resources Control Board to work together to expedite the regulatory steps necessary to store significant rainfall and excess water underground, while still ensuring protections for the environment and other water users as required by state law.