Gov. Otter Calls for Aquifer Funding Increases
BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter is calling for a major boost in state funding for aquifer recharge following a deal reached between water groups last year.
The Times-News reports that Otter is seeking a one-time $16.5 million payment to the Secondary Aquifer Planning, Management and Implementation Fund. He is also asking for additional spending on water sustainability projects from $2 million each year to $5 million.
Otter says an additional $6.5 million in funding announced Monday will go toward implementing the settlement agreement for the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer, which has dropped to its lowest point in over a century.
The deal between the Surface Water Coalition and groundwater users calls for groundwater users to give up 13 percent of their allotment to help stabilize the aquifer.