What is beneficial use?

Beneficial use is an important concept under New York water law. Put simply, it is the idea that the use of water is for a purpose that is recognized as beneficial to the public. This could include uses such as electric power production, municipal water supplies, and irrigation. The concept of beneficial use is important because it defines what is and is not permissible when it comes to the use of water in New York. Water rights are often based on beneficial use, meaning that a person or organization must use water for an approved purpose in order to have a valid water right. In addition, beneficial use is important when it comes to maintaining balanced public trust in New York’s waters. Beneficial uses, like hydropower or public drinking water, are seen as providing significant public benefits, while other uses, such as activities that could pollute the water, may be prohibited. In order to ensure that only beneficial uses are taking place, New York state has developed a permitting process for all water uses. All proposed uses have to be approved and the state can only approve uses that meet the definition of beneficial use. This ensures that water is being used in a responsible and beneficial manner.

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What is beneficial use?

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