(1) The chief water judge or the water judge in each water division may appoint one or more water masters.
(2) A water master may be appointed after July 1, 1980, and must be appointed on or before July 1, 1982.
(3) In appointing a water master, the water judge shall consider a potential master's experience with water law, water use, and water rights.
(4) A water master shall serve at the pleasure of the chief water judge and may be removed by the chief water judge.
(5) A water master may serve in any water division and may be moved among the water divisions at the discretion of the chief water judge.