43 U.S.C. § 390h–14 — Groundwater study

(a) Investigation, analysis, and report: Following up on the High Plains Groundwater Demonstration Program Act of 1983, the Secretary, acting through the Bureau of Reclamation and the Geological Survey, must investigate and analyze how existing Bureau of Reclamation projects affect the quality and quantity of groundwater resources. Based on that work, the Secretary must prepare a reclamation groundwater management and technical assistance report covering: (1) the investigation's findings and the methods used; (2) ways to run Bureau of Reclamation projects to reduce harm to groundwater; and (3) the Secretary's recommendations — along with recommendations from the governors of affected states — on setting up a groundwater management and technical assistance program in the Department of the Interior, to help federal and non-federal groups build and carry out groundwater management plans. (b) Consultation with governors: While doing the investigation, analysis, and report, the Secretary must consult with the governors of the affected states. (c) Report: The report must go to the House Committees on Appropriations and Natural Resources and the Senate Committees on Appropriations and Energy and Natural Resources, within three years after Congress appropriates the funds authorized by section 390h–15.