Water Rights Research and Mitigation
Range Rescue, LLC Water Rights and Mitigation Service entails comprehensive research and strategic mitigation related to water rights associated with ranch properties. The objective is to ensure the legal, sustainable, and efficient use of water resources for agricultural and operational needs, in accordance with state and federal laws governing water rights and usage.
Types of Ranch Water Rights
- Livestock watering (often considered a beneficial use)
- Irrigation for hay, pasture, etc.)
- Domestic use (if there’s a house on the property)
- Stock ponds or impoundments (may need permits)
- Diversions or wells (surface or groundwater access)
Each of these might need permits or recorded rights, and in some areas, they must be used continuously to avoid forfeiture.
Legal and Administrative Considerations
- State Water Board/Agency registration or adjudication
- Decreed rights or recorded claims
- Well drilling regulations (for groundwater)
- Monitoring and reporting (some places require metering)
Mitigation Strategies
If a ranch doesn't have sufficient water rights, or wants to expand use:
- Leasing or purchasing rights from others
- File on new water rights
- Water banking (in some states)
- Improved efficiency (e.g. drip irrigation)
- Pond lining or storage infrastructure
Environmental and Conservation Concerns
- Maintaining instream flow requirements
- Wildlife habitat preservation (wetlands, fish)
- Compliance with Endangered Species Act or local environmental regulations
- Soil erosion or water quality concerns from overgrazing
Transfer, Sale, or Inheritance
Water rights can often be sold separately from land, but not always. It’s critical for:
- Estate planning
- Land sales
- Avoiding unintentional loss of rights (through non-use or paperwork issues)
Range Rescue, LLC Services Include
· GPS all water sources and developments
· Determine if all rights are filed and adjudicated
· File on any that are not adjudicated
· File for change of use or additional use if needed, i.e. livestock watering on irrigation ditches
Obtain permits and file on any
