Environmental

South Dakota's prior appropriation water law means that a new agricultural operation wanting to divert water from a stream must:

APurchase water rights from the state treasury
BApply for a new water permit (appropriation) and their priority will be junior to existing rights✓ Correct
CShare water equally with all existing users
DProve they own mineral rights before accessing water

Explanation

Under South Dakota's prior appropriation system, new water users must apply for a permit. Their priority date will be later (junior) than existing rights, meaning they are cut off first during shortages.

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