Abstract
Recent years have seen an increase in private in vestment in water by large investment firms across Colorado. This has led to a rise in speculation and a move towards privatization of Colorado's already scarce water resources, prompting many to express fears over the future considering the threat that Climate Change poses to water supply. In response, this paper looks back towards the origins of the Doctrine of Prior Appropriation for inspiration about its future. In order to combat the threat of speculation and monopolization, Colorado should adopt a constitutional requirement that water must observe its Social Function: a theory of progressive property that consistently and concisely maps onto the Doctrine of Prior Appropriation that would ensure a more secure future for all of Colorado's residents.
First Page
105
Custom Citation
26 U. Denv. Water L. Rev. 105 (2023)