What is the difference between riparian and prior appropriation water rights?

Riparian and prior appropriation water rights are two types of water rights in Michigan. A riparian water right is granted to landowners who own property along a body of water, such as a river, lake, or stream. These rights allow the landowner to take and use a certain portion of the water from the body of water for irrigation, drinking, and other uses as long as it does not interfere with other riparian owners’ rights. In contrast, a prior appropriation water right is granted to non-riparian users, such as businesses and water districts. Under this type of water right, the user has the right to divert and use a specific portion of the water from a stream or lake. This water must be used for a beneficial purpose, such as agriculture, industry, and other public uses. Unlike a riparian water right, the water cannot be used for domestic use or recreational activities. In Michigan, the State recognizes and protects both riparian and prior appropriation water rights. While both water rights are similar in that they grant users the right to use a certain amount of water from a body of water, the rights differ in terms of who may use the water and for what purpose. Riparian rights are typically restricted to landowners on the body of water, while non-riparian users may be granted prior appropriation rights for specified public or private uses.

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What is the difference between riparian and prior appropriation water rights?

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