How are water rights determined?
Water rights in New Hampshire are determined by a system of riparian rights that follows common law principles. This system is based on the idea that people living near bodies of water have the right to use the water as necessary for their livelihood. This includes the right to use the water for drinking, washing, fishing, and other necessary activities. Under this system, the person who owns the land adjacent to the water has the right to use it, so long as their use does not interfere with the rights of others. This means that if someone was to build a dam, that person would have to get permission from adjacent landowners before doing so. Another way water rights are determined in New Hampshire is through the Surface Water Withdrawal Permit Program. This program is managed by the Department of Environmental Services and establishes the standards for taking water from rivers, streams, and lakes in the state. Under this program, a person must submit an application and receive a permit before they can take water from a water body. Finally, there are specific laws that regulate the use of water rights for irrigation and water supply. These laws govern how much water a person can take from a given body of water, as well as any restrictions on their use. In summary, water rights in New Hampshire are determined by the system of riparian rights depending on a person’s location, the Surface Water Withdrawal Permit Program, and various irrigation and water supply laws. These laws protect the rights of landowners while providing for necessary water access to surrounding communities.
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