Arizona Constitution Practice Test

Who controls water rights in Arizona?

1. Common law

2. Land owners

3. The state

4. The federal government

The correct answer is: The state

In Arizona, water rights are primarily controlled by the state, which manages the allocation and use of water resources through a regulatory framework. The Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) is responsible for overseeing the state's water supply, ensuring that it is managed sustainably and in accordance with state laws. This system is essential in a region where water scarcity can present significant challenges. The state's management includes various doctrines and laws that govern water rights, such as the doctrine of prior appropriation, which emphasizes the importance of establishing rights based on the priority of water use. This framework allows for the allocation of water to users, including agricultural, municipal, and commercial interests, while also considering ecological needs. While landowners may have certain rights related to the use of water on their property, these rights are ultimately subject to state regulation. The state ensures that water resources are used efficiently and fairly to support both current needs and long-term availability. Federal government involvement mainly pertains to water rights on federal lands or for federally managed resources, but primary control rests with the state of Arizona.