What is the public trust doctrine in terms of water?

The public trust doctrine is a principle of common law that applies to water and other natural resources in California. It requires the State to protect the public’s right to the use of certain waters and to ensure that they are available for the public’s enjoyment. This includes uses such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The scope of the public trust doctrine has been used to protect the public’s right to have access to water for recreational activities, as well as for commercial and agricultural activities. It also serves as a protection for natural resources and wildlife. Under the public trust doctrine, water resources can only be used for public benefit, not for private gain. This means that the government must manage and protect these resources in a way that promotes the public’s access to them. This includes restrictions on the amount of water that can be taken from these resources, or how it can be used. The public trust doctrine is also used to ensure that private entities, such as water companies, do not abuse their power in terms of how they use and manage public water resources. They must meet certain guidelines and restrictions to ensure that the public’s right to access water is not compromised. Overall, the public trust doctrine is an important concept when it comes to water law in California. It serves as a way for the government to ensure that the public has access to water for recreational and other uses, while also protecting natural resources and wildlife.

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What is the public trust doctrine in terms of water?

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