Water Rights
Candlefocus EditorRiparian Rights are a type of water rights. These give landowners access to and the right to use flowing bodies of water like rivers and streams. These rights are based on the assumption that a reasonable amount of the water will flow across one’s migratory boundaries so they may obtain reasonable access to it. These rights may not govern how much of the water one is permitted to use, but the capability of stream access and reasonable enjoyment is the main objective.
Littoral Rights are another type of water rights that grant access to those with waterfront property of lakes, seas, and oceans. Generally, these rights allow for enjoyment and reasonable use of the coastline and natural shoreline vegetation located beyond one’s property line. This means that a littoral rights holder could gain access to a cove and fish, swim, or use the waterway for a variety of different uses for recreational purposes and for transportation.
Water rights laws can vary greatly from state to state. For instance, many states in the western United States abide by the Prior Appropriation Doctrine. This doctrine grants water rights to the first person who started using the water. Other states, like Montana, may instead rely on a Supreme Court ruling, which governs that the immediate rights of access to water are held by one who owns the underlying land.
The regulating of water rights is important to governments, businesses, and individuals all over the world. It is responsible for ensuring that resources are not wasted or polluted, while still making sure that everyone has a safe and secure water supply. It is also responsible for ensuring that the right to reasonable use of water is made available to all.