The Gem State's Water
First In Time, First In Right
Idaho's Constitutional Law allocates water, both surface and ground, consecutively via the prior appropriation doctrine.
Senior water right users, those whose own the older rights, are primarily surface water users. Groundwater users are typically junior water right holders because groundwater pumping from the ESPA was implemented much later.
Protecting Private Property
Water is owned by the public - but the state of Idaho is responsible for granting the right to use that water.
Water is private property based on who, how much, and in what order each individual receives their share of the resource.
Ensuring Water for Future Generations
The Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer supplies fresh water to most of southern and eastern Idaho, providing agricultural irrigation, drinking water, and outdoor recreation. However, the ESPA's current levels are at or near historic lows.
This natural aquifer must be protected, meaning more water needs to go in than what is currently being pumped out.