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Technical Input to Water Rights Decisions

Hydrogeologists in the Groundwater Hydrology Section assist the Water Rights Services Division by performing a technical review of applications to appropriate groundwater.  The criteria for reviewing applications and the general process of the review, from acceptance of an application through final order for a permit, are summarized in the Water Rights in Oregon (aquabook).

The groundwater technical review is only one component of the Initial Review.  Groundwater technical reviews are documented on a standard form.

The groundwater review form is designed to:

  • Step the hydrogeologist through the required evaluation, as laid out in statute and rule;
  • Document the hydrogeologist’s evaluation of a groundwater application; and
  • Provide consistency of evaluation methodologies among Groundwater Hydrology Section staff.
An August 2017 staff report to the Water Resources Commission and a November 2017 voice-over-PowerPoint provide additional detail on the groundwater review process.