To support the long-term protection and sustainable use of Arkansas’s groundwater resources, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture may designate Critical Groundwater Areas when data shows significant groundwater depletion or water quality degradation in a region. This non-regulatory designation helps focus attention and resources on areas most in need of conservation efforts.
The designation of a Critical Groundwater Area is intended to:
- Raise public awareness of local groundwater challenges
- Promote education on groundwater conservation best management practices (BMPs)
- Improve access to financial incentives and state and federal assistance
- Support data-driven conservation strategies for long-term aquifer health
While the designation itself does not establish any new regulations or restrictions, it opens the door to expanded support through outreach, planning resources, and financial programs such as:
- Expanded eligibility under the Groundwater Conservation Tax Credit Program
- Priority access to applicable state and federal funding opportunities
Existing Designated Areas
- Cache Area
- Grand Prairie Area
- South Arkansas Area
These areas affect both the Mississippi River Valley alluvial aquifer and the Sparta aquifer—two of the most important water sources for agricultural, industrial, and public use in Arkansas.
Critical Groundwater Designation
The Problem:
Arkansas has an abundance of good quality groundwater. However, some parts of the state are not so fortunate. The groundwater supply is being depleted faster than the rate of recharge. If this trend continues, it will result in permanent damage to the aquifers and a serious groundwater shortage. Measures must be taken to protect the state’s precious groundwater supply. This can be done by reducing the use of groundwater through conservation and use of excess surface water.
Concerns:
What is a critical groundwater area?
Pursuant to Act 154 of 1991, the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission designates a critical area after notice and public hearings based upon monitoring and scientific review. The critical area is defined based on significant ground water declines and/or water quality degradation. Boundaries are configured based on the natural hydrogeologic boundary of the aquifer.
What does it mean to be in a designated critical groundwater area?
Being designated a critical groundwater area recognizes the existence of a water quality or quantity problem and encourages local interests to develop a plan of action to address the problems. Designation will encourage Congress, the Arkansas Legislature, and state and federal agencies to place higher priority on commitment of resources to implement solutions.
What is in it for me?
Designation makes an area a priority for state and federal programs such as tax credits and cost sharing programs.
Can being designated critical negatively affect my community?
No. This is a non-regulatory program, which focuses on conservation and education programs, such as state tax incentives for the installation of water conservation practices.
Will regulation be imposed as a result of designation?
No. There is no regulation of water associated with critical area designation at this time. Regulation cannot be initiated without a new process involving lengthy legal proceedings, additional notice and public hearings. Regulation has not been proposed anywhere in the state.
Will water use fees result from designation?
No. No additional fees of any kind are authorized by designation.
Will designation require me to install meters on my wells?
No. Critical area designation does not require metering of flows.
Program Contact: Corbin Cannon
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 501 850-5549