A bill for an act relating to surface water quality by requiring the establishment and maintenance of riparian protection measures, providing for financing, and providing penalties.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Claire Celsi and 5 co-sponsors

Bill SF 435 requires landowners to implement riparian protection measures to improve water quality, reduce runoff, and may offer financial assistance for compliance.

Subcommittee: Rozenboom, Driscoll, and Zimmer.

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Summary of Bill SF 435

Title: A bill for an act relating to surface water quality by requiring the establishment and maintenance of riparian protection measures, providing for financing, and providing penalties.

Bill Number: SF 435
Introduced: February 25, 2025
Current Status: Subcommittee: Rozenboom, Driscoll, and Zimmer
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Agricultural Land, Natural Resources, Water Quality, Soil and Water Conservation

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill SF 435 is to enhance surface water quality through the establishment and maintenance of riparian protection measures. The bill aims to mitigate nutrient runoff and improve water quality by requiring landowners to implement specific conservation practices along bodies of water.

Key Provisions

Riparian Protection Measures:

Landowners are required to establish and maintain riparian protection measures in compliance with a riparian protection compliance plan.
The plan must be developed from a riparian protection inventory and map created by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Administration:

The compliance plan must be prepared by the landowner and approved by the Division of Soil Conservation and Water Quality, which operates under the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
The division will collaborate with local soil and water conservation district commissioners and other governmental entities.

Requirements for Landowners:

Landowners must implement either a riparian protection buffer with perennial vegetation or an alternative practice (such as erosion control).
Financial assistance may be available to landowners through various programs, including cost-share funds.

Exceptions to Compliance:

The bill outlines specific exceptions where compliance may not be required, including:
- If there is only one riparian landowner.
- If other regulations apply (e.g., stormwater outlets).
- If the land is used for designated crops or is part of an environmentally sensitive area.

Impact

Affected Parties:

The bill primarily affects landowners adjacent to bodies of water, agricultural producers, and local conservation districts.
It also involves state agencies, including the DNR and the Department of Agriculture.

Environmental Benefits:

The implementation of riparian protection measures is expected to lead to improved water quality, reduced soil erosion, and enhanced biodiversity in riparian zones.

Procedural Aspects

Legislative Timeline:

The bill was introduced and referred to the Agriculture Committee on February 25, 2025.
A subcommittee consisting of Senators Rozenboom, Driscoll, and Zimmer was formed to review the bill on February 26, 2025.

This summary provides an overview of Bill SF 435, highlighting its objectives, key provisions, and potential impacts on water quality and land management practices.