Publisher
The University of Arizona.Rights
Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.Abstract
Arizona has a complex legal system governing its different sources of water (e.g., groundwater, surface water, rainwater, reclaimed water, etc.) This paper provides legal and historical context for the current practices governing water use in the state of Arizona, identifies ideal conservation practices to protect and preserve water resources, and recommends steps which could be taken to incentivize water conservation through new legal confines. Research on the current legal statutes and regulations that apply to water in Arizona as well as significant judicial decisions that shaped the interpretations of those laws are used to create a framework for understanding how water is managed in Arizona. Best practices for water conservation are explored based on scientific understanding of hydrology, ecology, and economics. Gaps between the current legal framework and best conservation practices are identified to highlight the downfalls of the current system of water appropriation. Drawing upon insight from the laws governing water in other western states and similarly situated geographic areas of the world and consulting professionals in various interest groups related to water use in Arizona, this paper proposes recommendations for the modification of our current water appropriation system (laws and their implementation) to better facilitate water conservation efforts while taking into account human interests.Type
Electronic Thesistext
Degree Name
B.S.Degree Level
bachelorsDegree Program
Agricultural Technology Management & EducationHonors College