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Anne Arundel-backed bill would authorize managed aquifer recharge pilot using treated reclaimed water
Summary
House Bill 1296 would authorize a state regulatory framework and pilot projects to test managed aquifer recharge (MAR) using highly treated reclaimed water to augment groundwater, increase resiliency against saltwater intrusion, and reduce nutrient discharges to the Chesapeake Bay; Anne Arundel County and environmental groups testified in favor.
The committee heard House Bill 1296, a proposal to establish a managed aquifer recharge (MAR) pilot program and a permitting path for using treated, reclaimed wastewater to augment groundwater supplies. Sponsors and county officials said a pilot would test a technology that can help protect aquifers from depletion and saltwater intrusion and can remove contaminants — including nitrogen, phosphorus, pharmaceuticals and PFAS — before recharge.
Why the pilot: Witnesses said groundwater levels are declining in parts of Maryland, increasing the risk of saltwater intrusion and land subsidence. Anne Arundel County officials described existing local work: the county has operated a MAR testing facility with input from an independent scientific advisory panel and is seeking a clear state regulatory framework to expand and share lessons learned.
Technical and environmental benefits: Testimony highlighted that MAR can be implemented via infiltration basins or injection wells, and that other states (California, Florida, Nevada, New Mexico and Virginia) have implemented similar projects. Proponents said the high level of treatment required for MAR can remove nutrients and contaminants more effectively than traditional discharges, offering both water-resiliency benefits and potential Chesapeake Bay water‑quality gains.
Support and oversight: County officials and the resilience authority urged the committee to allow MDE to review, permit and regulate pilot projects on a small scale, emphasizing monitoring and scientific oversight. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation told the committee MAR could help reduce nutrient loads reaching the Bay and requested a favorable report.
Questions and coordination: Committee members asked whether MDE had proposed technical amendments; witnesses replied they were working with MDE on language and would continue to coordinate. No vote was recorded in the hearing transcript.
