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IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO ALL TEXAS MEMBERS
TCEQ is proposing significant changes to rules that govern the irrigator license in Texas. The proposed changes to 30 TAC 344 are a result of the passing of House Bill 4 §§13, 19 and 20 and Senate Bill 3 §2.34 during the last legislative session in Texas. These bills directed the Commission to adopt rules that govern (1) the connection of an irrigation system to any water supply; (2) the design, installation and operation of irrigation systems; (3) water conservation; and (4) the duties and responsibilities of an irrigator. House Bill 1656 §3, amended Local Government Code Chapter 401, by adding §401.006, which directs municipalities with populations of 20,000 or more to adopt ordinances that require an installer of an irrigation system to be licensed by the Commission and obtain a permit before installing an irrigation system. This amendment also directed municipalities to adopt standards and specifications for designing, installing, and operating irrigation systems and include any rules adopted by the Agency related to landscape irrigation.
TCEQ is also adding two new licenses to the irrigation program. The biggest change is the proposed Irrigation Technician. This license will replace the Installer License on January 1, 2010. This new license will be required for every crew that is not operating with a licensed irrigator. This includes install crews and repair crews. The licensed Irrigation Technician will have to complete and pass the Basic Irrigator Technician course and pass the applicable test. Sixteen (16) hours of approved training credits to renew the irrigator's Technician license will also be required.
It is important that all licensed irrigators recognize the expansion in authority mandated by this legislation. With local units of government becoming involved in compliance and enforcement, compounded by significant rule changes, we will all be facing new challenges. Consider the mechanics of enforcement and compliance with each change and think through how this process might work. We should all take this opportunity to offer thoughtful contributions to this process with that in mind while the opportunity exists.
These rule changes have broad relevance in the Texas irrigation marketplace. Rather than attempting to find consensus with concerns related to these revisions, IA believes the grass roots irrigator should be the irrigation industry's voice. This is our livelihood. Please take the time to participate. New rules are scheduled to take effect in June of this year.
For more information:
The Irrigation Association is comprised of industry professionals from both public and private sectors --researchers, technicians, manufacturers, distributors, dealers, system designers, consultants, installers, and contractors--all dedicated to developing the irrigation industry and effectively utilizing our most vital resource. The mission of the IA is to promote efficient and effective water management and be the voice of the industry worldwide. www.irrigation.org
