[Vision2020] Naylor water right denied

[French]

News Release

IDAHO DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES

The Idaho Water Center, 322 E. Front St., Boise, ID - TEL: (208) 287-4800 FAX: (208) 287-6700

www.idwr.idaho.gov

Release 2005-47

Naylor Farms Water Right Application Denied

For Immediate Release For Media Information Contact:

Boise, Idaho - May 31, 2005 Michael Keckler - (208) 287-4828

The Idaho Department of Water Resources has on reconsideration, denied a water right

application filed by Ralph Naylor Farms, LLC to pump ground water for irrigation and industrial

purposes. Naylor Farms is located about three miles north of Moscow.

The application was denied because Naylor Farms failed to show that the ground water

supply is sufficient for its intended purposes, or that existing water rights in the area will not be

reduced or harmed.

In December 2004, IDWR issued a preliminary order approving the Naylor Farms

application based on an aquifer model prepared by the applicant that showed little

interconnection between the aquifer proposed to be tapped by Naylor Farms and the aquifers

used by the cities of Moscow and Pullman. Those opposing the water right application did not

provide their own expert testimony at the first hearing on the matter held in September 2004 in

Moscow.

Following the 2004 preliminary order, the Latah County Commission filed a petition for

reconsideration with the Department alleging the Naylor water right would conflict with the local

public interest. Hearing Officer L. Glen Saxton decided more information was needed on the

underlying geology, and the potential hydrologic connectivity of ground water beneath Naylor

Farms and other wells in the area.

A second hearing was held in April 2005, and testimony from expert witnesses called by

Latah County showed that wells drilled by Naylor Farms would obtain water from the same

source as other ground water wells in the area, and would almost certainly cause injury to

existing water users.

-more-

Saxton determined the evidence does not support the opinion of Naylor Farms that there

is sufficient ground water available for appropriation on their property.

The application was denied without prejudice meaning Naylor farms could file a new

application if they choose, or they could file a petition for reconsideration.

The amended preliminary order is available on the IDWR website: www.idwr.idaho.gov

-end-
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