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Water Management Act Program

MassDEP's Water Management Act Program regulates the amount of water withdrawn from Massachusetts ground and surface water resources. This ensures adequate supplies for current and future needs.

The Water Management Act (M.G.L. c. 21G) became effective in March 1986. The Act authorizes MassDEP to regulate the quantity of water withdrawn from both surface and groundwater supplies. The Water Management Act (WMA) consists of a few key components, including a registration program and a permit program.

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Apply for a Permit or Renew a Permit  Find out about Grants 

What you need to know

Fact Sheet: The Water Management Act  Water Conservation Pilot & Toolkit  Laws, Regulations and Policies  Annual Reporting and Forms  Water Management Act Stakeholders Group  Water Management Act Permits and Decisions 
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Image credits:  Matt Naughton
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