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Show It is felt that the present system of appropriation is preferable to different systems in other states, which are also dependent upon individual initiative, and the appropriation system may be satisfactory in many parts of the state for many years. But in order to achieve the maximum development of the available water resources, it may be necessary to modify the present system substantially in some areas. The possibility that the effective regulation of development and use of water might require some modification of the present system was recognized by all members of the committee, as shown by the following quotations from their summary discussions: Mr. Hansen: It might be to the advantage of the state as a whole if the state could be divided up into a series of hydrologic unit, unitized in such a way that both local control and state supervision might be preserved. Such an arrangement might handle the water problems better than they are now being administered with insufficient help through our State Engineer's Office. I realize these men are doing the very best job possible with the money and facilities at their disposal. Mr. Godfrey: To accomplish the full utilization of our underground water resources and protect the existing rights of underground water users, it is suggested that consideration be given to legislation whereby some public body properly organized to develop and distribute water be designated and charged with the responsibility of developing additional underground water as required to the point of full utilization of our underground storage basins with full protection being given to existing rights. Such an organization could then be created to develop and administer the underground water in each area under the control and supervision of the State Engineer. Under this plan, if full development of the basin should interfere with an existing right, an exchange could be made to protect the individual water user without hindering the full development of the basin. Mr. Criddle: Where ground water is a major contribution to presently developed surface streams, the water commissioner should have jurisdiction over both the surface and ground water resources and handle them as a single supply. Also, we should move toward a basin organization for the full development and utilization of the water resources within the basin. Such an organization, under the general supervision of the appropriate state administration, could utilize the services of specialists with a permanent organization that would assure all rights of their proper share of the water resource available, Mr. Marsell: Many of us would be in bad straits if we had to depend upon individually owned wells or mines or factories or power plants for our supplies of other natural resources- oil, coal, electricity, gas, metals. The history of development of each resource has been one - 22- |