"Water law is the law focused on development, allocation, use, and preservation of flow of fresh water. It covers the non-navigational uses of surface and groundwater. Water law is designed to mediate interaction among humans seeking to use water and between humans and the water resource itself in efforts to preserve aquatic ecosystems. This book reflects the need to understand the intimate relation between water law and the biophysical and social setting in which it is applied. It will support scientists positive role in working with lawyers and in a regulatory environment to address the complexity of emerging problems in water allocation and protection in the western United States. This book is intended for non-lawyers engaged in the study, research, and application of the natural and social sciences of water resources, as well as the human development, use, and protection of those resources. This book fills a gap in the availability of a textbook to be used in a course teaching the basics of water law to students preparing to serve in a state, tribal, or federal agency focused on the regulation or management of water resources; an NGO focused on the protection of water resources; or a consultancy focused on the development or ecological restoration of water resources. It will also be useful in training courses for agency scientists who will work in regulation, management, or development of water resources.

Research scientists whose interests are focused on the science/policy interface under variable climatic conditions will also find it informative"-- Provided by publisher.