Why the Western United States' prior appropriation water rights system should weather climate variability
Resource information
Date of publication
декабря 2012
Resource Language
ISBN / Resource ID
AGRIS:US201400169351
Pages
700-707
For the past 160 years, the prior appropriation system of the Western United States has adapted to changing water uses and shifting societal priorities. This paper argues that prior appropriation creates sufficient certainty to allow for economic development and facilitate water markets, yet is flexible enough to adapt to changing priorities and water supplies. Because it possesses both flexibility and certainty, it is a strong enough framework for the Western United States to weather the possible effects of climate change on water supply.