Use of artificial aquifer recharge where appropriate facilitated, groundwater storage and recovery funding provided, and money appropriated.

HF 1207 establishes a policy in Minnesota that encourages the use of artificial aquifer recharge to address depleted groundwater where feasible. It appropriates $1.2 million from the general fund for the Department of Natural Resources to create a centralized aquifer database and directs the Department of Health to develop decision-support tools, modify regulations for aquifer storage projects, and establish well permitting processes. This bill directly affects groundwater management agencies (DNR, Department of Health), water users, and communities relying on groundwater resources. The key provisions include funding for data collection, regulatory updates for aquifer storage projects, and requirements for cost-benefit analysis tools to evaluate recharge options.