Showing Diligence in Water Use by Tracking Water Use Meters
Due to recent crackdowns by the State Engineer in Nevada regarding both forfeitures and cancellations of groundwater rights not in full use, it is important to keep records of your water use. One method to show use is by recording your meter readings. This is important both for permitted wells and certificated wells respectively, to provide evidence to support a Proof of Beneficial Use as well as evidence of continued use.[1]
Many groundwater permits/certificates require monthly, quarterly, or annual reporting to the Nevada Division of Water Resources. If your use so requires recording and reporting, make sure you meet your specified deadlines to file your meter reading reports. If your wells are not metered, please be sure to verify whether you are required to maintain a meter. We predict that nearly all wells in Nevada will eventually require metering.
Schroeder Law Offices provides a routine monthly meter reading reminder email as a service to our clients. If you are a client of ours and wish to receive a monthly meter reading reminder, please request to be added to the “Well Meter Reminder” list by emailing request to counsel@water-law.com.
[1] Attorney Therese Ure assisted in the drafting of the legal issues discussed in this blog.