Pump withdrawing water from the backwater area of a lake in Washington County. DEC photo.
Vermont Business Magazine With spring underway and the bulk of construction season ahead, the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is reminding those who withdraw surface water to track and report usage. Under Act 135 of 2022, any person withdrawing surface water must file an annual report with DEC each January. The purpose of Act 135 is to collect baseline data on the use of surface waters such as rivers, streams, brooks, creeks, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs.
Anyone who withdraws 10,000 gallons or more of surface water within 24 hours – or 150,000 gallons or more over 30 days – is required to fill out an online form to register and report their withdrawal.
“Our state’s surface waters provide Vermonters with vital benefits, from drinking water, recreation, and industrial uses to wildlife habitat and water quality,” said DEC Commissioner Misty Sinsigalli. “Annual reports help us understand the extent and magnitude of surface water usage. This is critical to ensure enough water is available, especially in times of drought.”
Those who withdraw surface water for farming uses like irrigation or livestock watering must report to the Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets. Vermonters do not need to report usage for some surface water withdrawals, such as those used for public emergencies or to suppress fire.
“Streams and other surface waters can transform after high or low water flow events, as we have seen in Vermont as the last few years have brought flooding and extreme drought,” said Supervising River Ecologist Jeff Crocker. “Understanding the amount and when surface water withdrawals are being utilized will help us to better manage the complex needs of various sectors of our shared resource.”
DEC offers resources and technical assistance and can help answer any questions about Act 135 or streamflow protection.
The Department of Environmental Conservation is responsible for protecting Vermont's natural resources and safeguarding human health for the benefit of this and future generations. Visit dec.vermont.gov and follow the Department of Environmental Conservation on Facebook and Instagram.
4.15.2026. Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Website.
To support vital journalism, access our archives and get unique features like our award-winning profiles, Book of Lists & Business-to-Business Directory, subscribe HERE!
Vermont Business Magazine