The Arbuckle-Simpson groundwater basin covers approximately 520 square miles across Carter, Coal, Johnston, Murray and Pontotoc Counties. The basin provides Oklahomans a water source for a variety of uses, including farming and ranching. In Oklahoma, groundwater is considered to be private property belonging to the surface owner. Although this concept seems particularly straightforward, it has proven otherwise. A variety of groups and individuals are concerned about the quantity of water that may be withdrawn from the Arbuckle-Simpson basin in the future. However, Oklahoma Farm Bureau has supported its members who are concerned the outcome will severely limit how much water will be available for future use.

In 2003, legislation was passed imposing a moratorium on the issuance of temporary ground water permits for certain water supplies overlying particular areas. The legislation specifies a time period the moratorium shall remain in effect, until the OWRB conducts and completes a hydrological study and approves a Maximum Annual Yield subject to specifications. A Maximum Annual Yield (MAY) is used to describe an amount of groundwater that can be withdrawn while allowing a minimum 20-year life of the basin. Determining a MAY is a four-step process: hydraulic investigation, tentative determination, public hearing(s)and final order (determination) issuance. 

In September 2011, the hydrological study was published, however the MAY determination process is ongoing. The OWRB is currently evaluating all evidence and in the process of making a final determination. The determination will likely be announced in the fall. 

OKFB has been a long time advocate for private property rights. The organization supports the property owners’ rights to use any water above or below ground on their property as specified by state law.
If you have questions, please email LeeAnna Covington.
