AWWA JAW6657

The state of Colorado has a very complex system of water administration and use which was developed from an agricultural and mining economy in the early years prior to statehood. The state waters became administrable by the state under the prior appropriation doctrine. According to this doctrine, water is recognized as real estate or property rights that can be bought and sold separately from the land title. Since Colorado is a semiarid area, such water rights can cause problems. Two case studies involving Aurora and Telluride, Colorado are presented, illustrating the problems which can occur when changing types of water use and when attempting to transfer the point of diversion of existing water rights without injuring other water users. As Colorado's economy continues to develop with an increase in recreation, manufacturing, and energy development, the need to use the state's water resources fully and efficiently will become even more important. Includes 2 references, tables, figures.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. 74 - No. 7

Published:

07/01/1982

Number of Pages:

8

File Size:

1 file , 2.7 MB