Landholding: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition

Definition & Meaning

Landholding refers to the total area of irrigable land owned or leased by a person or entity, located within one or more irrigation districts. This area is served by irrigation water under a contract with the Secretary of the Interior. When calculating a landholding, the Secretary also considers any indirect holdings that benefit the primary holder, ensuring that the total landholding reflects the actual benefits received.

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Legal Use & context

The term "landholding" is commonly used in the context of federal land reclamation and irrigation laws. It is relevant in areas such as agriculture, land use planning, and environmental law. Understanding landholding is crucial for individuals or businesses involved in farming or land development, especially when applying for irrigation rights or federal assistance. Users can manage related legal processes with the help of templates available through US Legal Forms, which are drafted by qualified attorneys.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A farmer owns 50 acres of irrigable land and leases an additional 30 acres from another landowner. If both tracts are served by irrigation water under a federal contract, the farmer's total landholding would be 80 acres.

Example 2: A corporation holds a contract for irrigation water for two separate tracts of land, one owned directly and one leased. The Secretary would consider both tracts when determining the corporation's total landholding. (hypothetical example)

Relevant laws & statutes

Landholding is primarily governed by 43 USCS § 390bb, which outlines the definitions and regulations related to federal reclamation and irrigation of lands. This statute is essential for understanding the rights and responsibilities of landholders in relation to federal irrigation contracts.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Key Differences
Landholding	Total irrigable land owned or leased.	Focuses on irrigation contracts and federal involvement.
Land Ownership	Legal right to possess land.	Does not necessarily involve irrigation or federal contracts.
Leasehold	Right to use land owned by another under a lease agreement.	Can be part of a landholding but is a separate legal concept.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe your situation involves landholding, consider the following steps:

Review your land ownership and lease agreements.
Check if your land is served by an irrigation contract with the federal government.
Utilize US Legal Forms to access templates for contracts and agreements related to landholding.
If your situation is complex, consult with a legal professional for tailored advice.

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Quick facts

Typical Fees: Varies based on local regulations and agreements.
Jurisdiction: Federal and state laws apply.
Possible Penalties: Non-compliance with irrigation contracts may lead to loss of water rights.