OAR 690-022-0020: Purpose and Statutory Authority

(1) The purpose of these rules is to implement ORS 536.750(1)(c), which authorizes the Commission, pursuant to a gubernatorial declaration that a severe, continuing drought exists, to grant a temporary preference to water rights for human consumption or stock watering use over other water uses regardless of priority date. (2) These rules, pursuant to the Governor’s Executive Order no.14-01, dated February 13, 2014, are effective upon filing, and shall remain effective until December 31, 2014. During the effective period of these rules and a drought declaration under ORS 536.740 in Klamath County, the Commission grants a preference in Klamath County of use for water rights for human consumption or stock watering as provided in this rule. The temporary preference of use shall only apply to Klamath County and shall remain in effect only during the effective time period of the Governor’s drought declaration in Klamath County while these rules are in effect. (3) These rules are repealed on December 31, 2014.