Issue Position: Water

Issue Position

I have spent quite a bit of time studying the Idaho Priority Doctrine which asserts that the first in time is first in right of use. This principle has guided our water law for more than century and should continue to do so. As our aquifers and surface waters have been over-appropriated, our courts have had to assert this doctrine in direct terms. I believe we are finally moving toward some reasonable solutions in our water disputes, and that all groups need to work with the Department of Water Resources in cooperative ways with clear guidance from the courts and the Legislature.

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