Environmental

What is the 'prior appropriation' water doctrine used in Oregon and how does it affect property rights?

AAll landowners have equal rights to water in Oregon
BWater rights in Oregon are based on a 'first in time, first in right' system where senior appropriators have priority over junior users in times of shortage✓ Correct
COregon follows the riparian rights doctrine only
DAll Oregon water belongs to the state with no private rights

Explanation

Oregon uses the prior appropriation doctrine — 'first in time, first in right' — for water rights allocation. Older (senior) water rights holders have priority over newer (junior) appropriators in times of shortage. Water rights are separate from land ownership and must be obtained from the Oregon Water Resources Department. Properties without water rights may lack access to legally usable water.

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