The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers seeks public comment on a proposed rule that aims to clarify policies on the use of USACE reservoir projects for domestic, municipal and industrial water supply.USACE said Friday the rule looks to boost the Corps’ capacity to work with state and local entities on water supply development in line with the operation of reservoirs for federal purposes.
The agency added the proposed rule will support a “uniform understanding” of authorized activities under Section 6 of the Flood Control Act of 1944 and the Water Supply Act of 1958.
The rule is intended to explain the purpose and scope of USACE’s authority under Section 6 and the WSA; interpret key statutory terms; and provide pricing methodologies for surplus water contracts and water supply storage agreements.
USACE also looks to streamline administrative processes to authorize surplus water withdrawals and clarify procedures under water supply storage agreements through the proposed rule.
Interested parties can submit comments through Feb. 14, 2017.
