Colorado Water Law for Non-Lawyers

by P. Andrew Jones, Tom Cech

Why do people fight about water rights? Who decides how much water can be used by a city or irrigator? Does the federal government get involved in state water issues? Why is water in Colorado so controversial? These questions, and others like them, are addressed in Colorado Water Law for Non-Lawyers . This concise and understandable treatment of the complex web of Colorado water laws is the first book of its kind. Legal issues related to water rights in Colorado first surfaced during the gold mining era in the 1800s and continue to be contentious today with the explosive population growth of the twenty-first century. Drawing on geography and history, the authors explore the flashpoints and water wars that have shaped Colorado’s present system of water allocation and management. They also address how this system, developed in the mid-1800s, is standing up to current tests—including the drought of the past decade and the competing interests for scarce water resources—and predict how it will stand up to new demands in the future. This book will appeal to at students, non-lawyers involved with water issues, and general readers interested in Colorado’s complex water rights law.

352 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Jen Ghigiarelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

I FINALLY GET IT. Well (har har) formatted for accessibility, but did still make me go cross eyed once in a while. Worth the front to back read through once, and otherwise highly valuable to keep a physical copy on the shelf for future reference.

[Barron · Rating 5 out of 5]

A high-quality overview of a subject close to every true Coloradan's heart: water law. If you're from Colorado, ask yourself, "Do I like John Elway? Have I been to Casa Bonita? Should I be reading P. Andrew Jones's book on Colorado water law?" Contains history, geology, fun facts about vigilante fights over water, and the like, to lighten the load and engage a general audience. Meanwhile despite the title, lawyers are capable of reading this book.

And yes, the proper term is Coloradan, cf.: http://www.denverpost.com/opinion/ci_...

[Annie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Despite the title, found this to be technical, but was able to hang on for essential content, nonetheless. Would vote for this to be part of school curriculum, starting in middle school-we should all be aware of where our water comes from, how it is distributed and adjudicated, leaving no doubt as to how precious it is.

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Living in Colorado, we are constantly reminded of the need to conserve water and sometimes left wondering why so much of it gets allocated to other states. An excellent book including historical perspectives, current management of our limited resource, and future difficulties as population grows. I learned a great deal about the system of water regulation in Colorado. Highly recommended! !