(Updated July 10, 2006)

H.R. 3897
Madera Water Supply and Groundwater Enhancement Project Act  

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 3897 under suspension of the rules on Monday, July 10, 2006. The resolution is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 3897 would authorize the Bureau of Reclamation to conduct a feasibility study of the Madera Water Supply and Groundwater Enhancement project. The agency is expected to rely on previously conducted engineering and environmental studies as it undertakes the study. If the Bureau of Reclamation finds the Project feasible (as defined under Bureau of Reclamation principles and guidelines), the bill authorizes the agency to participate in the Project's construction. The federal cost share would be 50 percent for the feasibility study and 25 percent for construction.

Background

The Madera Water District is in the process of developing the Madera Water Supply and Groundwater Enhancement Project in an effort to help drought-proof Central California's San Joaquin Valley. The District recently purchased a 13,648-acre ranch which would be used for the Project. Under this proposed project, pumping facilities would convey District water to the ranch, where the water would be allowed to percolate and form a `water bank' beneath the ranch. Banked water could be pumped and used locally when supply is low, providing a key regional water supply benefit. The Project would help the District in its efforts to conserve and more efficiently use its local and Central Valley Project water supplies.

Legislative History

H.R. 3897 was introduced by Rep. Radanovich (CA) on September 27, 2005. The resolution was ordered to be reported, as amended, by unanimous consent on November 16, 2005. House Report 109-420 was filed on January 31, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the Resources Committee at 5-2761.