Downloads
CS/CS/HB 95 — C-51 Reservoir Project
by State Affairs Committee; Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee; and Rep. Jacobs and others (CS/CS/SB 92 by Appropriations; Environment and Natural Resources; and Senators Book and Mayfield)
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Environment and Natural Resources Committee (EN)
The bill authorizes the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) to acquire any portion of the C-51 reservoir project not already committed to utilities for alternative water supply purposes. The bill authorizes the SFWMD to acquire land near the C-51 reservoir project through the purchase or exchange of land owned by the SFWMD or state as necessary to implement any part of the project. Previously, these authorizations pertained only to Phase II of the project.
The bill requires the operation of Phase I of the C-51 reservoir project to be in accordance with any operation and maintenance agreement approved by the SFWMD. Water made available by the reservoir must be used for natural systems in addition to any permitted amounts for water supply. Water in the reservoir that is received from Lake Okeechobee may be made available to support consumptive use permits, but only if such use is in accordance with the SFWMD’s rules.
The bill authorizes Phase II of the C-51 reservoir project to be funded by appropriation in addition to the existing authorized funding sources.
If approved by the Governor, these provisions take effect July 1, 2019.
Vote: Senate 38-1; House 112-0