Section effective until July 1, 2024. See, also, Section 49-3-50 effective July 1, 2024.

1. (a) Adequate supplies of surface and groundwaters of suitable quality for all uses, including domestic, municipal, agricultural, and industrial.
2. (b) Water of suitable quality for all purposes.
3. (c) Water availability for recreational and commercial needs.
4. (d) Hydroelectric power.
5. (e) Flood damage control or prevention measures including zoning to protect people, property, and productive lands from flood losses.
6. (f) Land stabilization measures.
7. (g) Drainage measures, including salinity control.
8. (h) Watershed protection and management measures.
9. (i) Outdoor recreational and fish and wildlife opportunities.
10. (j) Studies on saltwater intrusion into groundwater and surface water.
11. (k) Measures to protect the state's fisheries and other aquatic resources.
12. (l) Any other means by which development of water and related land resources can contribute to economic growth and development, the long-term preservation of water resources, and the general well-being of all the people of the State.

In exercising its responsibilities under this chapter, the department shall take into consideration the need for:

HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 70-25; 1967 (55) 60; 1969 (56) 72; 1993 Act No. 181, Section 1244; 2008 Act No. 344, Section 1, eff six months after approval (approved June 11, 2008); 2019 Act No. 73 (H.4011), Section 2, eff May 16, 2019.