The Harney Basin rules created a Serious Water Management Problem Area, or SWMPA, in addition to the Critical Groundwater Area. One of the most immediate requirements is measurement. By March 1, 2028, groundwater right holders, well owners, or well operators generally must install a totalizing flow meter on each well listed as a point of appropriation on a valid groundwater right within the SWMPA boundary. Exempt-use wells are not included in this requirement.
The Meter Requirement Applies at the Well Level
The rule requires a totalizing flow meter on each covered well, rather than relying only on estimates of field-level water use. OWRD retained well-level metering because the Department wants pumping information at individual wells for measurement, reporting, and adaptive management.
That distinction is important for properties with multiple wells. A single estimate for the farm or irrigated field does not necessarily satisfy the requirement when several wells are listed as points of appropriation on valid rights.
Installation Must Follow Meter and OWRD Requirements
Meters must be installed according to manufacturer specifications and maintained in good working order. Both the flow meter and the method of installation may be subject to approval by OWRD staff. Department staff must also have reasonable access to meters when requested.
Waiting until early 2028 to select and install equipment could create practical problems. Meter sizing, pipe configuration, straight-run requirements, power or telemetry needs, and installation scheduling may all need to be addressed before a meter can produce dependable records.
Monthly Measurement Leads to Annual Reporting
After meters are installed, covered groundwater users must maintain a complete record of the volume appropriated each month. The reporting year under the Harney SWMPA rule runs from November 1 through October 31. The annual report is due to OWRD by December 31 and must use the form maintained by the Department.
These records will become increasingly important as OWRD implements the Harney groundwater-management program. Meter readings will provide direct evidence of pumping and support the adaptive-management process used to evaluate groundwater conditions and future reductions.
March 2028 Is a Compliance Deadline, Not the Best Installation Date
The current rule sets March 1, 2028 as the installation deadline, although OWRD may extend it and must provide notice if it does so. Unless the Department announces an extension, affected users should plan around the existing deadline.
For many operators, the practical approach is to identify all covered wells well before 2028, confirm which water rights list each well as a point of appropriation, evaluate existing meters, and determine whether new equipment or installation changes will be necessary.
A meter is only useful for compliance if it is installed correctly and produces records that can be retained and reported. Water Rights Pro can help review well and water-right records, identify covered points of appropriation, coordinate measurement planning, and organize reporting information before the new requirements become part of routine operation.