appropriation doctrine
Defined in 1 dictionary — Case Law
Definitions from Case Law
From 304 U.S. 92 - Hinderlider v. La Plata River & Cherry Creek Ditch Co. · 1938Most cited · 346 citing opinions
the first person who acts toward the diversion of water from a natural stream and the application of such water to a beneficial use has the first right, provided he diligently continues his enterprise to completion and beneficially applies the water. The rights of subsequent appropriations are subject to rights already held in the stream.