WSP10068

• File Number: 8281.960
• Description: Colorado River Studies and Investigations -- Lower Colorado Comprehensive Framework Study
• Basin: Colorado Mainstem
• Water Division: 5
• Date: 6/1/1971
• Title: Lower Colorado Region Comprehensive Framework Study -- Appendix III - Legal and Institutional Environment
• Water Supply Pro - Doc Type: Report/Study

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INTRODUCTION

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The basic objective of the Type I framework studies is to provide
a broad guide to the best use, or combination of uses, of water and
related land resources of the basin to me~t foreseeable short- and long-
term needs. Among other issues in formulating a framework plan, there
is need to consider the legal, institutional or other constraints which
exist and are of extreme' import as a part of the framework plan of
resource development. Thus, the purpose of this 'appendix is to summarize
the general legal and policy framework under which planning and development
for the control, use and management of water and related land resources
have progressed and can proceed in the States of the Lower Colorado Region.
The primary objective is to convey a general understanding of water laws,
policies and administration in the states, the laws and policies in the
Federal Government, and finally to highlight their interrelations.

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Scope

Conservation of water resources long has been recognized as a
responsibility of both the states and the Federal Government. Any frame-
work plan in this respect must cover the salient features of State and
Federal constitutional and statutory law, and certain judicial decisions.
From these have come important elements of State and Federal policy, and,
particularly at the State level, the means for their administration.

This appendix briefly summarizes first for the Lower Colorado Region
its major provisions of water law and current organizational structure
of both the Federal and state framework in the field of water resource
planning, development and administration. In many respects this impinges
on matters of related land resource planning and development, and such
relationships are covered. Similarly, the appendix then summarizes the
institutional and environment as it relates to State, Federal, and local
organizations with responsibilities in water resources planning,
development and use.

Only general treatment is attempted and the coverage is not suffi-
cient to provide more than a general orientation and understanding in
this field. specific water right problems and in-depth water policy
issues must be explored by legal counselor by contact with state offi-
cials thoroughly conversant with water laws and their many ramifications.

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