Final public meeting addresses objections to Provo South water rights determination

Water rights adjudication took center stage at the recent government meeting in Utah, where officials discussed the completion of the proposed determination for Provo City South, Area 55 Book 6. This critical step follows the publication of the proposed determination on March 20, which initiated a 90-day period for public objections, set to conclude on June 18.

During the meeting, officials outlined the process for accessing the proposed determination and emphasized the importance of understanding the details for filing objections. They provided clear instructions on how to navigate the document, including the necessary civil case number and the specific sections that water users should focus on.

A key highlight of the proposed determination is its incorporation of prior decrees, notably the 1921 Provo River decree, ensuring that all historical water rights are considered in the evaluation. The meeting also featured discussions on the boundaries of the Provo South Subdivision, clarifying that only water rights with points of diversion within these limits are included in the determination.

As the final public meeting wraps up, officials are preparing to resolve any objections before seeking an interlocutory decree from the court. This process is vital for establishing clear water rights in the region, which are allocated based on the principle of prior appropriation. The outcome of this adjudication will have lasting implications for water users in Provo City South, making it essential for stakeholders to engage with the proposed determination before the objection period ends.