OAR 690-012-0020: Definitions

As used in these rules, the following terms shall have the indicated meanings. (1) “Basin” means one of the river basins within this state as defined by Water Resources Department map number 0.2, dated 1987, and entitled “Oregon Drainage Basins,” unless the context requires otherwise. (2) “Basin of origin” means the basin in which surface or groundwater that is the subject of an application under ORS 537.211, 537.400, 537.620, 540.520, 543.210, or 543.290 is located. (3) “Commission” means Water Resources Commission. (4) “Department” means the Water Resources Department. (5) “Director” means Water Resources Director. (6) “Harm” means to waste or use water inefficiently, deplete water supplies to the detriment of existing right holders or public uses, overdraft groundwater supplies or degrade the quality of surface or groundwater. (7) “Historically Transported” means the exercise of a valid water right, within the last five years, in a manner that is beneficial and lawful. (8) “Out-of-Basin-Diversion Application” means either: (a) An application for a new use of water that proposes to divert water for use outside the basin of origin; or (b) An application to change the place of use of an existing right to a place outside the basin of origin. (9) “Planned Uses or Development” means a proposed use of water for which a permit has been issued or an application has been received by the Department. (10) “Regional Municipal Water Service” means regular service of water for municipal purposes in accordance with the provisions of ORS 540.510, 540.530, and ORS Chapter 450, or such water service to multiple jurisdictions through one or more providers and systems. (11) “Return Flow” means water that returns to a stream either uncontrolled or by controlled conveyance following its diversion and use from a surface or groundwater source.