LEG00160

• Bill Number: HJR03-1019
• Year: 2003
• Title: Colorado 64 Water Principles
• Legislation - Doc Type: Other CWCB Related Bills - Passed

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WHEREAS, Colorado law recognizes the right to move water from
where it flows to where it is needed and to change the historical use of
water from one beneficial use to another; and

WHEREAS, In the 130 years sin~e adoption of our constitution,
Colorado has grown significantly, both in population and in expanded uses
for water; and

WHEREAS, The volume of undeveloped water in Colorado has shrunk
tremendously, and as our quest for solutions considers transferring water
from one part of Colorado for new or different uses in other parts of the
state, we must address the impacts such measures have on the people and
economies where these waters originate; and

WHEREAS, We recognize that in the free exercise of private property
rights, some water will continue to be transferred from willing sellers to
willing buyers, and will continue to move away from traditional uses to new
uses, and the goal of all parties should be to ultimately advance the
economic, environmental, cultural, and recreational health of all Colorado
communities; and

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WHEREAS, The following principles are offered by "Colorado 64"-a
coalition representing communities, water providers, and business interests
across Colorado-to frame the debate about preparing for Colorado's water
future; and

WHEREAS, These principles are intended to inform and assist decision
makers and water managers in crafting fair and mutually beneficial water
projects, as well as balanced water-related policy and legislation to address
Colorado's water challenges; and

PAGE 2-HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION 03-1019

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