(1) No dam, weir, bulkhead, riprap, diversion or other structure or modification of the waterway shall be constructed upon any river area which has been included in the State wild, scenic and recreational rivers system except stream improvement structures for fisheries management purposes as expressly authorized in section 15-2709 of the Environmental Conservation Law.

(2) New construction or new operation of hydropower facilities on wild rivers is prohibited.

(3) The department may approve permits and certifications for the installation of new hydroelectric generation facilities at existing dams on scenic and recreational rivers provided that:

(1) The natural flow of water in wild rivers shall be maintained and there shall be no new diversions thereof or withdrawals therefrom.

(2) Permit application reviews of proposed groundwater withdrawals which are located in the watershed of the river area and are regulated pursuant to article 15, title 15 of the Environmental Conservation Law shall include consideration of the effect of the proposed activity on streamflow and associated water table levels. Permits for groundwater withdrawals will not be issued if it is determined that such withdrawals would result in significant lowering of the water table or reduction of streamflow.

(3) Any changes in water releases from an existing water-impounding structure shall be conducted in a manner that will insure the protection, perpetuation and enhancement of riverine biota and the natural, scenic and recreational values of the designated river.

(4) All water-dependent and water-related developments or land uses, consumptive or otherwise, which are located in or upstream of a designated river segment, and which affect all or part of the flow in the designated river, will be required: