(1) This chapter is adopted in accordance with the Watershed Planning Act (chapter 90.82 RCW), Water Resources Act of 1971 (chapter 90.54 RCW), Minimum Water Flows and Levels Act (chapter 90.22 RCW), Regulation of public groundwaters (chapter 90.44 RCW), Water code (chapter 90.03 RCW), and the water resources management regulation, chapter 173-500 WAC, which was adopted under the authority of the Water Resources Act of 1971, chapter 90.54 RCW.

(2) This chapter applies to the management of all waters within the Walla Walla River drainage basin located in Washington state.

(3) This chapter shall not affect existing water rights, unless otherwise provided for in the conditions of the water right in question. It shall also not affect federal Indian and non-Indian reserved rights.

(4) The department shall initiate a review of this chapter whenever new information, changing conditions, or statutory modifications make it necessary to consider revisions.