How does the doctrine of public trust apply to water?

The doctrine of public trust applies to water because it is considered a shared resource. In Washington, water is considered a public resource and the state has an obligation to protect it under the doctrine of public trust. This means that the state is responsible for developing and enforcing laws and regulations to ensure that public water sources, such as rivers, lakes, and streams, are not taken advantage of or used in a way that is not beneficial to the public. The doctrine of public trust includes the idea that states must protect the public’s right to access and use water for navigation, fishing, swimming, and other recreational activities. It also protects the public’s right to access public water for drinking, irrigation, and other uses that benefit the public. Additionally, the state must ensure that water is not negatively impacted by pollution caused by human activities. While the doctrine of public trust is not a specific law, it does inform water law in Washington and other states. It serves as a reminder that the public’s access to and use of water must be protected, and it ensures that the state is upholding its responsibility to manage the water resources within its borders in a way that is safe and beneficial for the public.

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How does the doctrine of public trust apply to water?

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