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James owns a decreed irrigation water right in Colorado. He has not used the water right for the past 15 consecutive years because he converted his farmland to dry-land farming. Which Colorado legal doctrine could threaten his water right?

Correct Answer

C) Abandonment, which can extinguish a water right when there is intent to abandon and non-use over time

Under C.R.S. § 37-92-402, a Colorado water right can be declared abandoned if the owner demonstrates an intent to abandon the right, evidenced by non-use over a period of time. Colorado water courts can find abandonment based on a combination of non-use and intent to abandon. Extended non-use (such as 15 years) creates a rebuttable presumption of abandonment. James should consult a water rights attorney to protect his right, potentially by leasing the water or filing to maintain the decree.

Answer Options
A
Eminent domain, allowing the state to acquire unused water rights for public benefit
B
Adverse possession, allowing a neighboring farmer to claim the right after 18 years of use
C
Abandonment, which can extinguish a water right when there is intent to abandon and non-use over time
D
Escheat, which transfers unused water rights to the state after 10 years of non-use

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

water_rightsabandonmentnon_useprior_appropriationbeneficial_use

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