Coho Water Resources

Integrated Water Resource Management

Water Rights

Coho brings depth and breadth of experience, knowledge of statutes and rules, and familiarity with current and developing policies to our water rights projects (see Coho’s 2016 article in the DJC). Chris is a Certified Water Rights Examiner who has worked in the State’s cost re-imbursement program since its inception in 2001, for both the State and applicants in public and private sectors.

Internal Water Rights Audits: We can provide the complete files on your water rights, an assessment of their validity, strengths and weaknesses, and recommendations for securing them. Land/business acquisitions are a good time to conduct audits. We uncovered a water right for one client that was about to expire, which was then sold for significant gain. 

Water Right Changes: Coho can help reconfigure your water rights and determine the most efficient means of processing the applications. Options include through normal channels, expedited avenues, Water Conservancy Boards, or the cost re-imbursement program.

New Water Rights:Obtaining a new water right is challenging. However, we often find a way and have a record to prove it. This includes new water rights in closed basins, ASR permits, mitigation plans and temporary water rights. 

Alternatives: Getting a new water right is not an exclusive option. Reducing water needs, conjunctive uses between different sources and tapping existing supplies should be considered in the mix to meet your water demand. Rain harvesting is a limited option for which Chris managed the technical work that lead to the establishing Policy 1017.

Our clients include municipalities, agriculture, state agencies, and tribes.

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