The term storage water refers to water released from reservoirs that are owned and operated by the U.S. government. This includes any water designated for use on lands that have storage contracts through canals. Additionally, it encompasses water that is discharged from these reservoirs to fulfill natural flow requirements.
Storage water is primarily used in the context of water rights and resource management. It plays a significant role in legal matters related to water distribution, irrigation, and environmental regulations. Users may encounter forms related to water rights or contracts, which can often be managed using templates available through US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A farmer has a storage contract with a reservoir. They receive water from the reservoir for irrigation during the growing season. This water is classified as storage water.
Example 2: A city relies on water released from a federal reservoir to maintain river flow for environmental purposes. This water, while not directly contracted, is also considered storage water. (hypothetical example)
| State | Storage Water Regulations |
|---|---|
| California | California has specific regulations governing the allocation and use of storage water, focusing on both agricultural and urban needs. |
| Colorado | In Colorado, storage water rights are tightly regulated, with a focus on maintaining river ecosystems and water availability for agriculture. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Flow | Water flow that occurs naturally in a river or stream without human intervention. | Storage water is released based on contracts, while natural flow is not controlled. |
| Reservoir Water | Water stored in a reservoir for various uses. | Storage water specifically refers to released water under contracts, while reservoir water may include all water held. |
If you are involved in a situation concerning storage water, consider the following steps:
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Storage water is water released from U.S. reservoirs for use under specific contracts.