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H.R. 791

Ground Water Research, Management, and Education Act of 1988

(Measure passed Senate, amended)

Ground Water Research, Management, and Education Act of 1988 - Title I: Coordination of Federal Ground Water Research and Education Programs - Directs the President to coordinate groundwater research, assessment, and monitoring activities conducted by Federal agencies and establish an Interagency Groundwater Research Task Force which shall be: (1) chaired by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); (2) made up of key Federal agencies involved in groundwater research; and (3) responsible for identifying research data needs, recommending research priorities, facilitating interagency coordination, and consulting with State and local governments concerning groundwater research needs. Requires the Task Force to submit an annual report to the Congress and the President that serves as the management plan for the Federal groundwater research program.

Establishes an Advisory Committee on Groundwater Research to advise the President and the Task Force on groundwater research issues and needs.

Requires the Task Force to appoint a Clearinghouse Committee to facilitate agency groundwater information systems. Directs each participating agency of the Task Force to establish a technical transfer and information center that serves as an accessible repository of groundwater information.

Requires the Task Force to appoint an Education Committee made up of members who have scientific or educational expertise relevant to groundwater research and management and responsible for reviewing and strengthening academic training programs relating to groundwater.

Authorizes appropriations for the preceding activities for FY 1989 through 1993.

Amends the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 to reauthorize the program providing grants to Water Research Institutes through FY 1993. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to evaluate each institute's research at least once every five years to determine whether it merits continued support. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of the Interior through FY 1993 for the reimbursement of 50 percent of the costs of additional research or the synthesis of research by institutes on water problems of a regional nature.

Title II: Groundwater Research Programs of the Federal Government - Part A: Programs of the Environmental Protection Agency - Directs the Administrator to establish a national research, development, and demonstration program to support the protection, maintenance, and restoration of groundwater resources of the United States. Requires such program to include research, demonstrations, and surveys of causes, prevention, and correction of groundwater contamination. States that priority shall be given to projects which demonstrate the fate of contaminants in groundwater and develop methods and procedures for controlling pollution sources, monitoring water quality, restoring contaminated groundwater, and reducing the contaminating effects of waste materials. Directs the Administrator to investigate the effects on human health and the environment, and on the Nation's water supply needs.

Directs the Administrator to establish a media-specific research committee for groundwater resources to report annually for at least five years on the major research issues of groundwater resources, the current status of the research in such issues, and a plan for the succeeding three years. Requires such report to include a list of all major policy decisions affecting groundwater, control technology projects, health effects research, and other research related to groundwater. Makes such report the management plan for the program and requires its review by the Science Advisory Board and submission to the Congress. Directs the Administrator to appoint a Groundwater Research Manager in the Office of Research and Development to carry out such plan and serve as liaison with the Clearinghouse Committee.

Directs the Administrator to establish a program of research to develop technologies for the control of groundwater pollution. Requires that such program be carried out utilizing demonstration projects through contracts, cooperative agreements, or grants. Requires the Administrator to evaluate projects on the basis of the potential of the proposed method to effectively control sources of contaminants presenting the greatest risk to human health, the environment, or groundwater and such method's potential application in other locations and circumstances as well as the technical and financial capacities of the project's proposer. Requires the Administrator to supervise and monitor such projects. Limits the Federal share to 50 percent of costs.

Directs the Administrator to conduct a technology transfer program and make information gathered pursuant to such program available through a technical transfer and information center. Requires such program to protect trade secrets from public disclosure.

Directs the Administrator to list contaminants known to occur in groundwater. Requires an annual review and revision of such list, providing procedures for any person to petition for additions to such list. Requires the Director of the National Toxicology Program to develop and transmit to the Administrator a proposed research program for each listed contaminant which includes studies of chemical and physical properties, health and ecological effects, and its dispersion and persistence when released.

Directs the Administrator to publish criteria for each listed contaminant upon completion of its research program, based on the properties and effects of such contaminant and its association with activities which have potential to be sources of the contaminant in groundwater, including an assessment of the risks posed by the contaminant along a range of concentrations.

Directs the Administrator to conduct nationwide groundwater quality surveys to identify the frequency and concentration of contaminants in groundwater associated with various categories of sources or potential sources of contaminants. Includes monitoring at public and private wells. Establishes a survey schedule for: (1) pesticide applications; (2) septic tanks and cesspools; (3) landfills, surface impoundments, and wastepiles; (4) Class V injection wells; (5) fertilizer applications; (6) irrigation return flows; (7) publicly owned treatment works; (8) light industry; and (9) transportation corridors. Requires as preliminary phases to such surveys: (1) an analysis to determine the types and distribution of sources for each category; (2) the development and preparation of techniques and protocols to be used; and (3) the preparation of health advisories for each contaminant. Requires that groundwater quality surveys provide the Administrator with a clear understanding of the need for instituting contaminant source control strategies on a local, State, or national basis. Requires the Administrator to notify the water system or well owner when a contaminant is found, but requires that information released to the public be of a general nature. Directs the Administrator to notify the appropriate government authorities for response when a source for a contaminant is identified. Requires the Administrator to cooperate with the States and utilize the Science Advisory Board in planning and conducting surveys.

Requires the Administrator to provide the Congress with a plan for implementing these requirements and a status report on each survey which shall also be submitted to the President, the States, and the public.

Directs the Administrator to study and report on the public health effects of nitrates, nitrosamines, and other metabolites of nutrients and nitrogen in drinking water supplies, including sources, levels of exposures, and methods and costs of control.

Requires the Administrator to report to the Congress by September 1, 1989, on abandoned production and injection wells and the impacts that such wells may have on groundwater quality.

Requires peer review of all studies conducted under this Act. Authorizes the provision of facilities and equipment for demonstration projects under this Act, limiting construction of facilities on non-Federal land.

Requires the Administrator to make grants to universities or research institutions to establish and operate eight groundwater research institutes to conduct research and training and disseminate information on the protection and restoration of groundwater. Bases selection on whether such institute would be located in a region making significant use of groundwater with significant contamination problems and the capacity of such institute to carry on and lead such research. Limits the Federal share to 50 percent of costs. Earmarks funds for technology transfer. Requires the Administrator and the Secretary of the Interior to approve and evaluate each institute's research.

Authorizes appropriations for the programs under this part through FY 1993.

Part B: Programs of the Department of the Interior - States that the Department of the Interior has the principal Federal responsibility for research in the hydrolic sciences, for appraising the Nation's water resources, and for providing hydrolic information.

Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Geological Survey, to undertake research, investigations, assessments, surveys, and related activities of the Nation's water resources. Requires the Secretary to appoint a Groundwater Research Manager to provide central direction for groundwater research within the appropriate bureau and serve as liaison with the Clearinghouse Committee. Authorizes the Secretary to cooperate with other government agencies and to perform such activities on a reimburseable basis, as specified. Includes regional aquifer systems analysis and a toxics hydrology program in such activities.

Requires the Secretary to report to specified congressional committees and the States on the Nation's water supply needs and the condition of groundwater and groundwater information and monitoring programs.

Directs the Secretary to establish a national groundwater quality and quantity assessment. Requires such program to coordinate government efforts in such area, seek to achieve uniform data collection, and provide information and assistance as required.

Requires the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Bureau of Reclamation, to conduct a study and report to the Congress concerning the effects of existing and proposed water projects on the quantity and quality of ground and surface waters. Directs the Bureau of Mines to conduct a study and report to the Congress concerning the impact of mining or groundwater quality.

Authorizes appropriations for part B activities.

Part C: Ground Water Research Program of the Department of Agriculture - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to appoint a Groundwater Research Manager to provide central direction for groundwater research among the Department's Divisions and serve as liaison with the Clearinghouse Committee.

Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct an investigation and analysis and prepare reports for the Congress on the relationship between agricultural practices, policies, and groundwater use. Authorizes appropriations for such evaluation through FY 1993.

Directs the Agricultural Research Service to fund basic and applied research in groundwater, including control and monitoring technologies as they pertain to agricultural practices and uses of groundwater in rural areas.

Requires the Cooperative State Research Service to: (1) fund and coordinate the agricultural research program in the Land Grant University system; (2) coordinate the Agriculture Department's research efforts around the State and local data and information needs regarding contaminants; (3) study the effects various soil types have on pesticide and fertilizer contamination in local groundwaters.

Authorizes appropriations to the Soil Conservation Services for a study into the impact of conservation tillage and other soil and water conservation practices on groundwater quality.

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, acting through the Agricultural Research Service and the Cooperative State Research Service, to establish a national research, development, and demonstration program with respect to the impact of agricultural practices on groundwater quality, including the application of pesticides and nutrients, irrigation practices, and the operation of animal feedlots. Requires the Secretary to address: (1) chemical and biological interactions and processes, including the fate and transport of substances released by agricultural practices; (2) analytical models and testing methodology; and (3) management and control. Authorizes appropriations for such program through FY 1993.

Requires the Secretary of Agriculture and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish and co-chair an Agricultural Nitrogen Best Management Practices Committee to develop agricultural best management practices and educational materials to minimize the impact of agricultural nitrogen on public health and groundwater quality. Authorizes appropriations for such Committee for the first five fiscal years succeeding this Act's enactment.

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct research on practices, methods, and techniques for improving the efficiency of fertilizer uses in agriculture. Authorizes appropriations for such research through FY 1993. Requires the Administrator to conduct a study and report to the Congress concerning the chemical constituents of commercial fertilizer products and the potential for such constituents to leach and contaminate groundwater. Authorizes appropriations for such study.

Requires the Administrator and the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a study and report to the Congress on agricultural drainage wells, their impact on groundwater quality, alternatives to such wells, and the costs of closing existing wells. Authorizes appropriations.

Provides for the establishment of groundwater protection education programs. Authorizes appropriations for such programs through FY 1993.

Part D: Additional Provisions - Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Army, to study the Lake Okeechobee ecosystem in Florida to determine the relationship between surface and groundwater quality and the management and control of aquatic plants. Authorizes appropriations for such study through FY 1991. Requires the President to submit an annual report to the Congress on such activities.

Authorizes the Administrator to establish a Western Center for Nuclear and Groundwater Research within Nevada to conduct and promote research into the protection of groundwater from nuclear and hazardous substances. Requires the Center to report annually to the Congress, the President, and the Governor of Nevada concerning its activities.

Title III: State Ground Water Strategies - Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States to support the development and implementation of State strategies designed to detect, prevent, and correct groundwater contamination and control sources on potential sources of contaminants. Authorizes appropriations for such grants through FY 1993.

Authorizes the Administrator to assist local governments in financing the acquisition and installation of groundwater treatment technologies needed to remove radium from groundwater used as a source of public drinking water. Authorizes appropriations for such grants through FY 1991.

Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to extend by two years the time for States to designate wellhead and sole source aquifer protection areas.

Title IV: Patent Policy - Authorizes nonprofit organizations or small business firms to elect to retain title to any invention conceived or first reduced to practice under a funding agreement with the EPA, though such agreement may restrict or eliminate such right, when: (1) the contractor is not located in the United States or is subject to the control of a foreign government; (2) the restriction or elimination of such right will better promote the commercialization, utilization and public availability of such inventions; (3) necessary to protect the security of intelligence or counter-intelligence activities; or (4) naval nuclear propulsion or weapons-related programs of the Department of Energy are involved. Gives the EPA a nonexclusive, nontransferable, irrevocable, paid-up license to practice or have practiced on its behalf throughout the world an invention in which the contractor elects rights.

Authorizes the EPA to require a small business firm or nonprofit organization which has retained title in a subject invention to grant a license in any field of use to a responsible applicant in certain circumstances, such as when the contractor has not taken effective steps to achieve practical application of the invention. Prohibits such firms or organizations and their assignees from granting a person the exclusive right to use or sell such inventions unless that person agrees that products embodying the invention or produced through the use of such invention will be manufactured substantially in the United States.

Authorizes the EPA to secure domestic and foreign protection of federally-owned inventions.

Imposes restrictions on licensing of federally-owned inventions which are designed to promote public utilization of the invention.

Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to issue regulations implementing this title's provisions.

Message on Senate action sent to the House.

Rep. Gejdenson, Sam [D-CT-2](D-CT)Sponsor
110 cosponsors77 D33 R
110cosponsors6committees78actions4amendments5related bills50subjects
  1. Floor

    Message on Senate action sent to the House.

  2. Floor

    Passed Senate with an amendment by Voice Vote.

  3. Floor17000

    Passed/agreed to in Senate: Passed Senate with an amendment by Voice Vote.

  4. Floor

    Measure laid before Senate by unanimous consent.

  5. Calendars

    Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 1031.

  6. Committee

    Committee on Environment and Public Works. Reported to Senate by Senator Burdick with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 100-567.

    Environment and Public Works Committee
  7. Committee14000

    Committee on Environment and Public Works. Reported to Senate by Senator Burdick with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 100-567.

    Environment and Public Works Committee
  8. Committee

    Committee on Environment and Public Works. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.

    Environment and Public Works Committee
  9. Committee

    Subcommittee on Water Resources, Transportation. Hearings concluded. Hearings printed: S.Hrg. 100-661.

    Water Resources, Transportation, Public Buildings, and Economic Development Subcommittee
  10. Committee

    Subcommittee on Hazardous Wastes and Toxic. Hearings held. Hearings printed: S.Hrg. 100-661.

    Toxic Substances, Research and Development Subcommittee
  11. Committee

    Subcommittee on Water Resources, Transportation. Hearings held.

    Water Resources, Transportation, Public Buildings, and Economic Development Subcommittee
  12. IntroReferral

    Received in the Senate and read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

    Environment and Public Works Committee
  13. FloorH34200

    House Incorporated H.R.3676 in This Measure as an Amendment.

  14. FloorH37100

    Passed House (Amended) by Yea-Nay Vote: 399 - 15 (Record Vote No: 449).

  15. Floor8000

    Passed/agreed to in House: Passed House (Amended) by Yea-Nay Vote: 399 - 15 (Record Vote No: 449).

  16. FloorH30000

    Committee Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute Considered as an Original Bill for the Purpose of Amendment.

  17. FloorH30000

    Called up by House by Rule.

  18. FloorH1L220

    Rule Passed House.

  19. FloorH1L210

    Rules Committee Resolution H.Res.318 Reported to House.

  20. FloorH12700

    Committee on Rules Granted an Open Rule Providing Two and One Half Hours of General Debate.

  21. CalendarsH12410

    Placed on Union Calendar No: 200.

  22. CommitteeH12200

    Reported to House (Amended) by House Committee on Agriculture. Report No: 100-155 (Part V).

    Agriculture Committee
  23. Committee5000

    Reported to House (Amended) by House Committee on Agriculture. Report No: 100-155 (Part V).

    Agriculture Committee
  24. CommitteeH12200

    Reported to House (Amended) by House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Report No: 100-155 (Part IV).

    Science, Space, and Technology Committee
  25. Committee5000

    Reported to House (Amended) by House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Report No: 100-155 (Part IV).

    Science, Space, and Technology Committee
  26. CommitteeH12200

    Reported to House (Amended) by House Committee on Public Works and Transportation. Report No: 100-155 (Part III).

    Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
  27. Committee5000

    Reported to House (Amended) by House Committee on Public Works and Transportation. Report No: 100-155 (Part III).

    Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
  28. CommitteeH12200

    Reported to House (Amended) by House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Report No: 100-155 (Part II).

    Energy and Commerce Committee
  29. Committee5000

    Reported to House (Amended) by House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Report No: 100-155 (Part II).

    Energy and Commerce Committee
  30. CommitteeH19000

    Ordered to be Reported (Amended).

    Agriculture Committee
  31. CommitteeH15000-B

    Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

    Agriculture Committee
  32. CommitteeH19000

    Ordered to be Reported (Amended).

    Science, Space, and Technology Committee
  33. CommitteeH15000-B

    Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

    Science, Space, and Technology Committee
  34. CommitteeH19000

    Ordered to be Reported (Amended).

    Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
  35. CommitteeH15000-B

    Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

    Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
  36. CommitteeH23000

    Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended).

    Department Operations, Research, and Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee
  37. CommitteeH22000

    Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

    Department Operations, Research, and Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee
  38. CommitteeH19000

    Ordered to be Reported (Amended).

    Energy and Commerce Committee
  39. CommitteeH15000-B

    Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

    Energy and Commerce Committee
  40. CommitteeH13000

    Executive Comment Received From USDA.

    Agriculture Committee
  41. CommitteeH13000

    Favorable Executive Comment Received From USDA.

    Agriculture Committee
  42. CommitteeH23000

    Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended).

    Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee
  43. CommitteeH22000

    Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

    Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee
  44. CommitteeH23000

    Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended).

    Transportation, Tourism, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee
  45. CommitteeH22000

    Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

    Transportation, Tourism, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee
  46. CommitteeH23000

    Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended).

    Environment Subcommittee
  47. CommitteeH23000

    Subcommittee on Natural Resources, Agricultural Research, and Environment Approved for Full Committee Consideration with an amendment in the Nature of a Substitute.

    Environment Subcommittee
  48. CommitteeH22000

    Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

    Environment Subcommittee
  49. CommitteeH23000

    Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended).

    Health and Environment Subcommittee
  50. CommitteeH22000

    Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

    Health and Environment Subcommittee
  51. CommitteeH21000

    Subcommittee Hearings Held.

    Department Operations, Research, and Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee
  52. IntroReferralH11210

    House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Granted an Extension for Further Consideration Ending not Later Than September 30, 1987.

    Science, Space, and Technology Committee
  53. IntroReferralH11210

    House Committee on Public Works and Transportation Granted an Extension for Further Consideration Ending not Later Than September 30, 1987.

    Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
  54. IntroReferralH11210

    House Committee on Energy and Commerce Granted an Extension for Further Consideration Ending not Later Than September 30, 1987.

    Energy and Commerce Committee
  55. IntroReferralH11210

    House Committee on Agriculture Granted an Extension for Further Consideration Ending not Later Than September 30, 1987.

    Agriculture Committee
  56. CommitteeH21000

    Subcommittee Hearings Held.

    Department Operations, Research, and Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee
  57. CommitteeH21000

    Subcommittee Hearings Held. Hearings printed: H. Hrg. 100-18.

    Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee
  58. CommitteeH21000

    Subcommittee Hearings Held.

    Environment Subcommittee
  59. CommitteeH11000

    Referred to Subcommittee on Transportation, Tourism, and Hazardous Materials.

    Transportation, Tourism, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee
  60. CommitteeH11000

    Referred to Subcommittee on Health and the Environment.

    Health and Environment Subcommittee
  61. CommitteeH21000

    Subcommittee Hearings Held.

    Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee
  62. CommitteeH11000

    Referred to Subcommittee on Department Operations, Research, and Foreign Agriculture.

    Department Operations, Research, and Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee
  63. CommitteeH11000

    Referred to Subcommittee on Water Resources.

    Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee
  64. CommitteeH11000

    Referred to Subcommittee on Natural Resources, Agricultural Research, and Environment.

    Environment Subcommittee
  65. IntroReferralH11200

    Referred to House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Sequentially, for a Period Ending not Later than Sep 11, 87.

    Science, Space, and Technology Committee
  66. IntroReferralH11200

    Referred to House Committee on Public Works and Transportation Sequentially, for a Period Ending not Later than Sep 11, 87.

    Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
  67. IntroReferralH11200

    Referred to House Committee on Energy and Commerce Sequentially, for a Period Ending not Later than Sep 11, 87.

    Energy and Commerce Committee
  68. IntroReferralH11200

    Referred to House Committee on Agriculture Sequentially, for a Period Ending not Later than Sep 11, 87.

    Agriculture Committee
  69. CommitteeH12200

    Reported to House (Amended) by House Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs. Report No: 100-155 (Part I).

    Natural Resources Committee
  70. Committee5000

    Reported to House (Amended) by House Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs. Report No: 100-155 (Part I).

    Natural Resources Committee
  71. CommitteeH19000

    Ordered to be Reported (Amended).

    Natural Resources Committee
  72. CommitteeH15000-B

    Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

    Natural Resources Committee
  73. CommitteeH25000

    Subcommittee on Water and Power Resources Discharged.

    Water, Power and Offshore Energy Resources Subcommittee
  74. CommitteeH21000

    Subcommittee Hearings Held.

    Water, Power and Offshore Energy Resources Subcommittee
  75. CommitteeH11000

    Referred to Subcommittee on Water and Power Resources.

    Water, Power and Offshore Energy Resources Subcommittee
  76. IntroReferralH11100

    Referred to House Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs.

    Natural Resources Committee
  77. IntroReferralIntro-H

    Introduced in House

  78. IntroReferral1000

    Introduced in House

Oct 7, 198835
(Measure passed Senate, amended)

Ground Water Research, Management, and Education Act of 1988 - Title I: Coordination of Federal Ground Water Research and Education Programs - Directs the President to coordinate groundwater research, assessment, and monitoring activities conducted by Federal agencies and establish an Interagency Groundwater Research Task Force which shall be: (1) chaired by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); (2) made up of key Federal agencies involved in groundwater research; and (3) responsible for identifying research data needs, recommending research priorities, facilitating interagency coordination, and consulting with State and local governments concerning groundwater research needs. Requires the Task Force to submit an annual report to the Congress and the President that serves as the management plan for the Federal groundwater research program.

Establishes an Advisory Committee on Groundwater Research to advise the President and the Task Force on groundwater research issues and needs.

Requires the Task Force to appoint a Clearinghouse Committee to facilitate agency groundwater information systems. Directs each participating agency of the Task Force to establish a technical transfer and information center that serves as an accessible repository of groundwater information.

Requires the Task Force to appoint an Education Committee made up of members who have scientific or educational expertise relevant to groundwater research and management and responsible for reviewing and strengthening academic training programs relating to groundwater.

Authorizes appropriations for the preceding activities for FY 1989 through 1993.

Amends the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 to reauthorize the program providing grants to Water Research Institutes through FY 1993. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to evaluate each institute's research at least once every five years to determine whether it merits continued support. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of the Interior through FY 1993 for the reimbursement of 50 percent of the costs of additional research or the synthesis of research by institutes on water problems of a regional nature.

Title II: Groundwater Research Programs of the Federal Government - Part A: Programs of the Environmental Protection Agency - Directs the Administrator to establish a national research, development, and demonstration program to support the protection, maintenance, and restoration of groundwater resources of the United States. Requires such program to include research, demonstrations, and surveys of causes, prevention, and correction of groundwater contamination. States that priority shall be given to projects which demonstrate the fate of contaminants in groundwater and develop methods and procedures for controlling pollution sources, monitoring water quality, restoring contaminated groundwater, and reducing the contaminating effects of waste materials. Directs the Administrator to investigate the effects on human health and the environment, and on the Nation's water supply needs.

Directs the Administrator to establish a media-specific research committee for groundwater resources to report annually for at least five years on the major research issues of groundwater resources, the current status of the research in such issues, and a plan for the succeeding three years. Requires such report to include a list of all major policy decisions affecting groundwater, control technology projects, health effects research, and other research related to groundwater. Makes such report the management plan for the program and requires its review by the Science Advisory Board and submission to the Congress. Directs the Administrator to appoint a Groundwater Research Manager in the Office of Research and Development to carry out such plan and serve as liaison with the Clearinghouse Committee.

Directs the Administrator to establish a program of research to develop technologies for the control of groundwater pollution. Requires that such program be carried out utilizing demonstration projects through contracts, cooperative agreements, or grants. Requires the Administrator to evaluate projects on the basis of the potential of the proposed method to effectively control sources of contaminants presenting the greatest risk to human health, the environment, or groundwater and such method's potential application in other locations and circumstances as well as the technical and financial capacities of the project's proposer. Requires the Administrator to supervise and monitor such projects. Limits the Federal share to 50 percent of costs.

Directs the Administrator to conduct a technology transfer program and make information gathered pursuant to such program available through a technical transfer and information center. Requires such program to protect trade secrets from public disclosure.

Directs the Administrator to list contaminants known to occur in groundwater. Requires an annual review and revision of such list, providing procedures for any person to petition for additions to such list. Requires the Director of the National Toxicology Program to develop and transmit to the Administrator a proposed research program for each listed contaminant which includes studies of chemical and physical properties, health and ecological effects, and its dispersion and persistence when released.

Directs the Administrator to publish criteria for each listed contaminant upon completion of its research program, based on the properties and effects of such contaminant and its association with activities which have potential to be sources of the contaminant in groundwater, including an assessment of the risks posed by the contaminant along a range of concentrations.

Directs the Administrator to conduct nationwide groundwater quality surveys to identify the frequency and concentration of contaminants in groundwater associated with various categories of sources or potential sources of contaminants. Includes monitoring at public and private wells. Establishes a survey schedule for: (1) pesticide applications; (2) septic tanks and cesspools; (3) landfills, surface impoundments, and wastepiles; (4) Class V injection wells; (5) fertilizer applications; (6) irrigation return flows; (7) publicly owned treatment works; (8) light industry; and (9) transportation corridors. Requires as preliminary phases to such surveys: (1) an analysis to determine the types and distribution of sources for each category; (2) the development and preparation of techniques and protocols to be used; and (3) the preparation of health advisories for each contaminant. Requires that groundwater quality surveys provide the Administrator with a clear understanding of the need for instituting contaminant source control strategies on a local, State, or national basis. Requires the Administrator to notify the water system or well owner when a contaminant is found, but requires that information released to the public be of a general nature. Directs the Administrator to notify the appropriate government authorities for response when a source for a contaminant is identified. Requires the Administrator to cooperate with the States and utilize the Science Advisory Board in planning and conducting surveys.

Requires the Administrator to provide the Congress with a plan for implementing these requirements and a status report on each survey which shall also be submitted to the President, the States, and the public.

Directs the Administrator to study and report on the public health effects of nitrates, nitrosamines, and other metabolites of nutrients and nitrogen in drinking water supplies, including sources, levels of exposures, and methods and costs of control.

Requires the Administrator to report to the Congress by September 1, 1989, on abandoned production and injection wells and the impacts that such wells may have on groundwater quality.

Requires peer review of all studies conducted under this Act. Authorizes the provision of facilities and equipment for demonstration projects under this Act, limiting construction of facilities on non-Federal land.

Requires the Administrator to make grants to universities or research institutions to establish and operate eight groundwater research institutes to conduct research and training and disseminate information on the protection and restoration of groundwater. Bases selection on whether such institute would be located in a region making significant use of groundwater with significant contamination problems and the capacity of such institute to carry on and lead such research. Limits the Federal share to 50 percent of costs. Earmarks funds for technology transfer. Requires the Administrator and the Secretary of the Interior to approve and evaluate each institute's research.

Authorizes appropriations for the programs under this part through FY 1993.

Part B: Programs of the Department of the Interior - States that the Department of the Interior has the principal Federal responsibility for research in the hydrolic sciences, for appraising the Nation's water resources, and for providing hydrolic information.

Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Geological Survey, to undertake research, investigations, assessments, surveys, and related activities of the Nation's water resources. Requires the Secretary to appoint a Groundwater Research Manager to provide central direction for groundwater research within the appropriate bureau and serve as liaison with the Clearinghouse Committee. Authorizes the Secretary to cooperate with other government agencies and to perform such activities on a reimburseable basis, as specified. Includes regional aquifer systems analysis and a toxics hydrology program in such activities.

Requires the Secretary to report to specified congressional committees and the States on the Nation's water supply needs and the condition of groundwater and groundwater information and monitoring programs.

Directs the Secretary to establish a national groundwater quality and quantity assessment. Requires such program to coordinate government efforts in such area, seek to achieve uniform data collection, and provide information and assistance as required.

Requires the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Bureau of Reclamation, to conduct a study and report to the Congress concerning the effects of existing and proposed water projects on the quantity and quality of ground and surface waters. Directs the Bureau of Mines to conduct a study and report to the Congress concerning the impact of mining or groundwater quality.

Authorizes appropriations for part B activities.

Part C: Ground Water Research Program of the Department of Agriculture - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to appoint a Groundwater Research Manager to provide central direction for groundwater research among the Department's Divisions and serve as liaison with the Clearinghouse Committee.

Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct an investigation and analysis and prepare reports for the Congress on the relationship between agricultural practices, policies, and groundwater use. Authorizes appropriations for such evaluation through FY 1993.

Directs the Agricultural Research Service to fund basic and applied research in groundwater, including control and monitoring technologies as they pertain to agricultural practices and uses of groundwater in rural areas.

Requires the Cooperative State Research Service to: (1) fund and coordinate the agricultural research program in the Land Grant University system; (2) coordinate the Agriculture Department's research efforts around the State and local data and information needs regarding contaminants; (3) study the effects various soil types have on pesticide and fertilizer contamination in local groundwaters.

Authorizes appropriations to the Soil Conservation Services for a study into the impact of conservation tillage and other soil and water conservation practices on groundwater quality.

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, acting through the Agricultural Research Service and the Cooperative State Research Service, to establish a national research, development, and demonstration program with respect to the impact of agricultural practices on groundwater quality, including the application of pesticides and nutrients, irrigation practices, and the operation of animal feedlots. Requires the Secretary to address: (1) chemical and biological interactions and processes, including the fate and transport of substances released by agricultural practices; (2) analytical models and testing methodology; and (3) management and control. Authorizes appropriations for such program through FY 1993.

Requires the Secretary of Agriculture and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish and co-chair an Agricultural Nitrogen Best Management Practices Committee to develop agricultural best management practices and educational materials to minimize the impact of agricultural nitrogen on public health and groundwater quality. Authorizes appropriations for such Committee for the first five fiscal years succeeding this Act's enactment.

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct research on practices, methods, and techniques for improving the efficiency of fertilizer uses in agriculture. Authorizes appropriations for such research through FY 1993. Requires the Administrator to conduct a study and report to the Congress concerning the chemical constituents of commercial fertilizer products and the potential for such constituents to leach and contaminate groundwater. Authorizes appropriations for such study.

Requires the Administrator and the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a study and report to the Congress on agricultural drainage wells, their impact on groundwater quality, alternatives to such wells, and the costs of closing existing wells. Authorizes appropriations.

Provides for the establishment of groundwater protection education programs. Authorizes appropriations for such programs through FY 1993.

Part D: Additional Provisions - Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Army, to study the Lake Okeechobee ecosystem in Florida to determine the relationship between surface and groundwater quality and the management and control of aquatic plants. Authorizes appropriations for such study through FY 1991. Requires the President to submit an annual report to the Congress on such activities.

Authorizes the Administrator to establish a Western Center for Nuclear and Groundwater Research within Nevada to conduct and promote research into the protection of groundwater from nuclear and hazardous substances. Requires the Center to report annually to the Congress, the President, and the Governor of Nevada concerning its activities.

Title III: State Ground Water Strategies - Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States to support the development and implementation of State strategies designed to detect, prevent, and correct groundwater contamination and control sources on potential sources of contaminants. Authorizes appropriations for such grants through FY 1993.

Authorizes the Administrator to assist local governments in financing the acquisition and installation of groundwater treatment technologies needed to remove radium from groundwater used as a source of public drinking water. Authorizes appropriations for such grants through FY 1991.

Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to extend by two years the time for States to designate wellhead and sole source aquifer protection areas.

Title IV: Patent Policy - Authorizes nonprofit organizations or small business firms to elect to retain title to any invention conceived or first reduced to practice under a funding agreement with the EPA, though such agreement may restrict or eliminate such right, when: (1) the contractor is not located in the United States or is subject to the control of a foreign government; (2) the restriction or elimination of such right will better promote the commercialization, utilization and public availability of such inventions; (3) necessary to protect the security of intelligence or counter-intelligence activities; or (4) naval nuclear propulsion or weapons-related programs of the Department of Energy are involved. Gives the EPA a nonexclusive, nontransferable, irrevocable, paid-up license to practice or have practiced on its behalf throughout the world an invention in which the contractor elects rights.

Authorizes the EPA to require a small business firm or nonprofit organization which has retained title in a subject invention to grant a license in any field of use to a responsible applicant in certain circumstances, such as when the contractor has not taken effective steps to achieve practical application of the invention. Prohibits such firms or organizations and their assignees from granting a person the exclusive right to use or sell such inventions unless that person agrees that products embodying the invention or produced through the use of such invention will be manufactured substantially in the United States.

Authorizes the EPA to secure domestic and foreign protection of federally-owned inventions.

Imposes restrictions on licensing of federally-owned inventions which are designed to promote public utilization of the invention.

Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to issue regulations implementing this title's provisions.

Dec 2, 198736
(Measure passed House, amended (inserted text of H.R. 3676), roll call #449 (399-15))

Title I: Water Resources Authority of the Geological Survey - Geological Survey Water Resources Organic Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Geological Survey, to undertake research, investigations, appraisals, surveys, and related activities of the Nation's water resources. Authorizes the Secretary to cooperate with other government agencies and to perform such activities on a reimbursable basis, as specified. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990.

Title II: Ground Water Research - National Ground Water Research Act of 1987 - Directs the President to coordinate groundwater related activities conducted by Federal agencies. Requires the President to assist States in the conduct of such activities, including disseminating information. Directs the President to establish an Interagency Ground Water Research Committee to coordinate research, development, demonstration, technology transfer, training, and information dissemination activities related to groundwater conducted by the Federal agencies, including establishing priorities.

Directs the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) to prepare a report assessing groundwater quality and quantity information systems and data collection and monitoring. Requires the Secretary to submit such report to the Congress with biennial updates. Directs the Secretary to establish and conduct a national groundwater assessment program. Requires such program to assist State and local governments in assessing and managing groundwater resources and designing monitoring programs, including recommending protocols to assist such governments in meeting their data collection responsibilities under specified Federal environmental acts.

Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish and coordinate a research, development, and demonstration program for the protection and management of groundwater resources, including surveys, the development of cost-effective prevention, detection, and mitigation techniques, and the provision of technical assistance. Sets forth demonstration project selection criteria and procedures, based upon the seriousness of the contaminant addressed and a project's applicability to other locations and circumstances. Requires that such project be monitored and evaluated by the Administrator. Authorizes the Administrator to pay the costs of such evaluation, but limits Federal cost sharing for the project in general.

Directs the Administrator to conduct and publish a risk assessment analysis for significant groundwater contaminants according to a standard format and prescribed schedule.

Directs the Secretary and the Administrator to each establish a technical assistance program to serve other Federal and governmental agencies, including conducting research, surveys, training, and technology transfer.

Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a National Groundwater Information Clearinghouse.

Directs the Administrator to establish a media-specific research committee for groundwater resources. Directs the Science Advisory Board established by the Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1978 to review and report to the Congress on EPA's groundwater research programs. Authorizes the Administrator to establish and maintain research fellowships.

Directs the Administrator to make grants for groundwater research institutes which meet certain selection criteria. Requires that funds be equitably distributed throughout the United States and that one of the institutes be the National Center for Ground Water Research, a consortium between Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and Rice Universities. Limits the Federal share to 50 percent of costs and earmarks funds for technology transfer. Requires the Administrator to review and evaluate such institutes and subjects the institute's research to peer review.

Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of the Army to consider the impact on groundwater when evaluating new water resource projects. Authorizes modifications in existing projects to protect groundwater.

Requires the Administrator, in cooperation with New Jersey and local governments, to study and report on: (1) the feasibility of removing volatile groundwater contaminants in the New Jersey coastal plain by induced air phase transport; and (2) the problem of trace metal leaching by corrosive groundwater in such coastal plain.

Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with California and local agencies, to study and report on the feasibility of groundwater replenishment with treated wastewater and of the potential of groundwater contamination through exfiltration of sewage from sewer systems of publicly owned treatment works.

Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with New York State and local governments, to study and report on the pollution of the Buffalo River by contaminated groundwater in Erie County.

Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Army, to conduct a research and demonstration program at the Lake Okeechobee ecosystem, Florida, on the relationship between ground and surface water quality and the management and control of aquatic plants. Requires that methods developed be adaptable to other circumstances and that information on such methods be made available to State and local governments. Requires the solicitation of information from other sources such as scientists and management personnel. Requires the Administrator and the Secretary of the Army to each report to the Congress on such program and demonstration project, authorizing other Federal agencies to utilize such report. Authorizes appropriations.

Directs the President to report annually to the Congress on groundwater generally and groundwater programs conducted pursuant to this Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990. States that any contract authority provided in this title shall be available only in amounts provided in advance in appropriations Acts.

Title III: Agricultural Production and Water Use - Agricultural Ground Water Management Act of 1987 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to investigate and report to the Congress on the relationship between agricultural practices and water use and quality, including current and projected status and efforts. Requires the Administrator and the Secretary to jointly study the impact of dredging PCB-containing sediment from the Hudson River for land disposal.

Directs the Secretary to establish an Agricultural Nitrogen Best Management Practices Task Force to report to the Secretary and the Congress on agricultural best management practices, systems, and technologies for reducing or mitigating any negative effects of agricultural nitrogen on water quality. Authorizes appropriations for three fiscal years.

Title IV: Ground Water Radium Contamination - Authorizes the Administrator to assist local governments in demonstrating mitigation of radium contamination in groundwater where such groundwater is used as a source of public drinking water in small communities and the contamination exceeds the level established under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990 for such program.

Sep 30, 198719
(Reported to House from the Committee on Energy and Commerce with amendment, H. Rept. 100-155 (Part II))

Ground Water Research Act of 1987 - Directs the President to coordinate groundwater related activities conducted by Federal agencies. Requires the President to assist States in the conduct of such activities, including disseminating information. Directs the President to establish an Interagency Ground Water Research Committee to coordinate research, development, demonstration, technology transfer, training, and information dissemination activities related to groundwater activities conducted by the Federal agenices, including establishing priorities.

Directs the President to prepare a report assessing groundwater quality and quantity information systems, data collection, and monitoring. Requires the President to submit such report to the Congress with biennial updates. Directs the President to establish and conduct a national groundwater characterization program based upon such report's findings. Requires such program to assist State and local governments in characterizing resources and designing monitoring programs, including recommending protocols to assist such governments in meeting their data collection responsibilities under specified Federal environmental acts.

Directs the President to make the Department of the Interior the lead agency for groundwater data collection authorities.

Directs the President to establish and coordinate a research, development, and demonstration program for the protection and management of groundwater resources, including surveys, the development of cost-effective prevention, detection, and mitigation techniques, and the provision of technical assistance. Requires the President to report annually to the Congress on such program, including three year projections. Sets forth demonstration project selection criteria and procedures, based upon the seriousness of the contaminant addressed and a project's applicability to other locations and circumstances. Requires that such project be monitored and evaluated by the President. Authorizes the President to pay the costs of such evaluation, but limits Federal cost sharing for the project in general to 50 percent. Makes the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the lead agency for such program.

Authorizes the President to assist local governments in demonstrating mitigation of radium contamination in groundwater where such groundwater is used as a source of public drinking water in small communities and the contamination exceeds the level established under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990 for such program.

Establishes a national groundwater clearinghouse.

Directs the President to establish a technical assistance program to serve other Federal and governmental agencies, including conducting research, surveys, training, and providing fellowships. Makes the Department of the Interior the lead agency for groundwater characterization activities and EPA the lead agency for the mitigation and control of health and environmental effects.

Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990 for this Act.

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish an Agricultural Nitrogen Best Management Practices Task Force to develop and disseminate agricultural best management practices for agricultural nitrogen utilization in crop production. Requires the Task Force to report to the Congress within two years.

Sep 30, 198720
(Reported to House from the Committee on Public Works and Transportation, amended, H.Rept. 100-155(Part III))

Ground Water Act of 1987 - Title I: Water Resources Authority of the Geological Survey - Geological Survey Water Resources Organic Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Geological Survey, to undertake research, investigations, appraisals, surveys, and related activities of the Nation's water resources. Authorizes the Secretary to cooperate with other government agencies and to perform such activities on a reimbursable basis, as specified. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990.

Title II: Ground Water Research and Protection - Ground Water Research and Protection Act of 1987 - Directs the President to coordinate groundwater related activities conducted by Federal agencies. Requires the President to assist States in the conduct of such activities, including disseminating information. Directs the President to establish an Interagency Ground Water Research Committee to coordinate research, development, demonstration, technology transfer, training, and information dissemination activities related to groundwater conducted by the Federal agencies, including establishing priorities.

Directs the Secretary of the Interior to prepare a report assessing groundwater quality and quantity information systems and data collection and monitoring. Requires the Secretary to submit such report to the Congress with biennial updates. Directs the Secretary to establish and conduct a national groundwater assessment program. Requires such program to assist State and local governments in assessing and managing groundwater resources and designing monitoring programs, including recommending protocols to assist such governments in meeting their data collection responsibilities under specified Federal environmental acts.

Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish and coordinate a research, development, and demonstration program for the protection and management of groundwater resources, including surveys, the development of cost-effective prevention, detection, and mitigation techniques, and the provision of technical assistance. Sets forth demonstration project selection criteria and procedures, based upon the seriousness of the contaminant addressed and a project's applicability to other locations and circumstances. Requires that such project be monitored and evaluated by the Administrator. Authorizes the Administrator to pay the costs of such evaluation, but limits Federal cost sharing for the project in general.

Directs the Administrator to conduct and publish a risk assessment analysis for significant groundwater contaminants according to a standard format and prescribed schedule.

Directs the Secretary and the Administrator to each establish a technical assistance program to serve other Federal and governmental agencies, including conducting research, surveys, training, and technology transfer.

Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a national groundwater information clearinghouse.

Directs the Administrator to establish a media-specific research committee for groundwater resources. Directs the Science Advisory Board established by the Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1978 to review and report to the Congress on EPA's groundwater research programs. Authorizes the Administrator to establish and maintain research fellowships.

Directs the Administrator to make grants for groundwater research institutes which are to be located in areas making significant use of groundwater. Requires that funds be equitably distributed throughout the United States and that one of the institutes be the National Center for Ground Water Research, a consortium between Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and Rice Universities. Limits the Federal share to 50 percent of costs and earmarks funds for technology transfer. Requires the Administrator to review and evaluate such institutes and subjects the institute's research to peer review.

Directs the Secretary of the Army to consider the impact on groundwater when evaluating new water resource projects. Authorizes modifications in existing projects to protect groundwater.

Directs the Administrator to establish a grant program to assist local governments in removing radium from groundwater used as public drinking water where contamination exceeds the level established under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Requires the Administrator, in cooperation with New Jersey and local governments, to study and report on: (1) the feasibility of removing volatile groundwater contaminants in the New Jersey coastal plain by induced air phase transport; and (2) the problem of trace metal leaching by corrosive groundwater in such coastal plain.

Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with California and local agencies, to study and report on the feasibility of groundwater replenishment with treated wastewater and of the potential of groundwater contamination through exfiltration of sewage from sewer systems of publicly owned treatment works.

Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with New York State and local governments, to study and report on the pollution of the Buffalo River by contaminated groundwater in Erie County.

Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Army, to conduct a research and demonstration program at the Lake Okeechobee ecosystem, Florida, on the relationship between ground and surface water quality and the management and control of aquatic plants. Requires that methods developed be adaptable to other circumstances and be made available to State and local governments. Requires the solicitation of information from other sources such as scientists and management personnel. Requires the Administrator and the Secretary to each report to the Congress on such program and demonstration project, authorizing other Federal agencies to utilize such report. Authorizes appropriations.

Directs the President to report annually to the Congress on groundwater generally and groundwater programs conducted pursuant to this Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990.

Title III: Agricultural Nitrogen Management - Agricultural Nitrogen Management Act of 1987 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish the Agricultural Nitrogen Best Management Practices Task Force to develop and disseminate information on agricultural best management practices for agricultural nitrogen utilization in crop production. Requires the Task Force to report to the Congress, within two years of enactment, on its progress. Authorizes appropriations for five years.

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to require that the Task Force be consulted in certain reports under such Act concerning nonpoint source management programs.

Sep 30, 198721
(Reported to House from the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, amended, H. Rept. 100-155 (Part IV))

National Ground Water Research and Protection Assistance Act of 1987 - Directs the President to coordinate the groundwater related activities conducted by Federal agencies through the establishment of an Interagency Ground Water Research Committee which will report biennially on research needs and developments and will detail the responsibilities of each entity.

Makes the Secretary of the Interior the lead Federal official for the National Ground Water Assessment Program which shall prepare a report assessing groundwater quality and quantity information systems, data collection, and monitoring. Requires the Secretary to submit such report to the Committee, the public, and the Congress. Requires such program to assist State and local governments in the assessment of groundwater resources and designing monitoring programs, including recommending protocols.

Makes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency responsible for establishing and operating the National Research, Development, and Demonstration Program for Ground Water Protection and Management which shall assist State and local governments in managing their groundwater resources, conduct surveys, develop cost-effective prevention, detection, and mitigation techniques, and carry out a demonstration program. Sets forth demonstration project selection criteria and procedures, based upon the seriousness of the contaminant addressed and a project's applicability.

Requires the Administrator to conduct and publish a risk assessment analysis for each significant groundwater contaminant according to a standard format and prescribed schedule.

Directs the Secretary and the Administrator to carry out the Technical Assistance and Training Program to provide technical assistance to other Federal and governmental agencies, including conducting research, surveys, training, and technology transfers.

Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain the National Ground Water Information Clearinghouse.

Directs the Administrator to establish a media-specific research committee for groundwater resources. Directs the Science Advisory Board established by the Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1978 to review and report to the Congress on EPA's groundwater research programs. Authorizes the Administrator to establish and maintain research fellowships.

Directs the Administrator to make grants for groundwater research institutes which are to be located in areas making significant use of groundwater. Requires that such funds be equitably distributed throughout the United States and that one of the institutes be the National Center for Ground Water Research, a consortium between Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and Rice Universities. Limits the Federal share to 75 percent of costs and earmarks funds for technology transfer. Requires the Administrator to review and evaluate such institutes and subjects the institutes' research to peer review.

Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990.

Sep 30, 198722
(Reported to House from the Committee on Agriculture with amendment, H. Rept. 100-155 (Part V))

Title I: Ground Water Research and Protection - Ground Water Research and Protection Act of 1987 - Directs the President to coordinate groundwater related activities conducted by Federal agencies. Requires the President to assist States in the conduct of such activities, including disseminating information. Directs the President to establish an Interagency Ground Water Research Committee to coordinate research and information collection activities related to groundwater conducted by the Federal agencies, including establishing priorities. Establishes the Advisory Committee on Ground Water Research to assure that the needs of governmental agencies and others with responsibility for groundwater are being met.

Directs the Secretary of the Interior to prepare a report assessing groundwater quality and quantity information systems and data collection and monitoring. Requires the Secretary to submit such report to the Congress with biennial updates. Directs the Secretary to establish and conduct a national groundwater assessment program to assist State and local governments in assessing and managing resources and designing monitoring programs, including recommending protocols to assist such governments in meeting their data collection responsibilities under specified Federal environmental acts.

Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish and conduct a research, development, and demonstration program for the protection and management of groundwater resources, including surveys, the development of cost-effective prevention, detection, and mitigation techniques, and the provision of technical assistance. Sets forth demonstration project selection criteria and procedures, based upon the seriousness of the contaminant addressed and a project's applicability to other locations and circumstances. Requires the selection of at least ten projects each year. Requires that such projects be monitored and evaluated by the Administrator. Authorizes the Administrator to pay the costs of such evaluation.

Directs the Administrator to conduct and publish a risk assessment analysis for significant groundwater contaminants according to a standard format and prescribed schedule.

Directs the Secretary and the Administrator to each establish a technical assistance program to serve other Federal and governmental agencies, including conducting research, surveys, training, and technology transfer.

Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a national groundwater information clearinghouse.

Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990.

Title II: Agricultural Production and Water Use - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to investigate and report to the Congress on the relationship between agricultural practices and water use and quality, including current and projected status and efforts.

Directs the Secretary to establish an Agricultural Nitrogen Best Management Practices Task Force to report to the Secretary and the Congress on agricultural best management practices, systems, and technologies for reducing or mitigating any negative effects of agricultural nitrogen on water quality. Authorizes appropriations for three fiscal years.

Title III: Ground Water Radium Contamination - Authorizes the Administrator to assist local governments in demonstrating mitigation of radium contamination in groundwater where such groundwater is used as a source of public drinking water in small communities and the contamination exceeds the level established under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990 for such program.

Jun 12, 198718
(Reported to House from the Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, amended, H. Rept. 100-155 (Part I))

Title I: Water Resources Authority of the Geological Survey - Geological Survey Water Resources Organic Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Geological Survey, to undertake research, investigations, appraisals, surveys, and related activities of the Nation's water resources. Authorizes the Secretary to cooperate with other government agencies and to perform such activities on a reimbursable basis, as specified. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990.

Title II: National Ground Water Contamination Information Act - National Ground Water Contamination Information Act of 1987 - Makes the Secretary of the Interior primarily responsible at the Federal level for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information concerning the state of the Nation's groundwater. Requires the Secretary to report to specified congressional committees, the States, and the National Advisory Committee on Ground Water Information on the condition of the Nation's groundwater. Makes such report available to the public. Requires that such report include an assessment of existing groundwater quality and quantity information systems and data collection, dissemination, and monitoring programs.

Directs the Secretary to establish a national groundwater information program within two years of enactment. Requires such program to assist Government efforts in managing groundwater resources, recommend standard protocols, encourage cooperation, and provide information and assistance as required.

Directs the Secretary to establish a National Groundwater Information Clearinghouse.

Requires the Secretary to establish a technical assistance program to serve other Federal and governmental agencies.

Establishes the National Advisory Committee on Ground Water Information to review programs under this Act and to advise the Secretary. Terminates the Committee three years after the establishment of the National Groundwater Information Program.

Amends the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 to make conforming changes.

Jan 28, 198700

Title I: Authorization - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to undertake research, investigations, appraisals, surveys, and related activities of the Nation's water resources. Authorizes the Secretary to cooperate with other government agencies and to perform such activities on a reimbursable basis, as specified. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1990.

Title II: National Ground Water Contamination Research - National Ground Water Contamination Research Act of 1987 - Makes the Secretary of the Interior primarily responsible at the Federal level for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information concerning the state of the Nation's groundwater. Requires the Secretary to report within two years to specified congressional committees and the States on the condition of the Nation's groundwater. Requires that such report be accompanied by an independent evaluation by State individuals charged with responsibility for water pollution control matters.

Directs the Secretary to establish a national groundwater quality assessment program within three years of enactment. Requires such program to coordinate government efforts in such area, seek to achieve uniform data collection, and provide information and assistance as required.

Directs the Secretary to establish a national groundwater clearinghouse.

Requires the Secretary to establish a technical assistance program to serve other Federal and governmental agencies.

Amends the Water Resources Research Act of 1974 to make conforming changes.

Authorizes appropriations for such programs.