(a) It is against the public policy of North Carolina to withdraw water from any major river or reservoir if both of the following factors are present:  (i)  the withdrawal will cause the natural flow of water in the river or a portion of the reservoir to be reversed; and (ii)  substantial portions of the water are not returned to the river system after use.  For purposes of this section, a withdrawal will cause natural flow to be reversed if as a result of the withdrawal, the rate of flow in the river or discrete portion of the reservoir is 15 cubic feet per second or more, moving in a generally opposite direction than prior to the withdrawal, over a distance of more than one mile.  To correct for periodic effects, including tidal influences and reservoir fluctuations, flow speed and direction shall be calculated by using annual average flow data to determine pre-withdrawal flows, and projected annual average flow assuming the maximum practical rate of withdrawal, to determine post-withdrawal flows.

(b) This section shall not be construed to create an independent cause of action by the State or by any person.  This section shall not apply to any project or facility for which a withdrawal of water began prior to the date this section is effective. (1991, c. 567, c. 712, ss. 5, 6.)