Water Rights Forum addresses forfeiture and annexation concerns in local areas

The government meeting held on May 6, 2025, focused on critical discussions surrounding water rights adjudication in the Benjamin Subdivision, part of the Utah Lake/Jordan River Drainage area. The meeting addressed several key issues related to water rights, their usage, and implications for property owners.

The first topic of discussion revolved around the status of intermittent wells. Participants raised questions about how these wells, which do not consistently produce water, are treated under current regulations. It was noted that if a water source fails to provide sufficient water for beneficial uses, it may not be subject to forfeiture, offering some protection for owners of such wells.

Another significant point of discussion was the sale of water rights prior to adjudication. Attendees inquired whether a water right that has not been actively used could be sold. The response emphasized that if a water right has not been utilized for a period of seven years, it could be deemed subject to forfeiture upon evaluation. This raises concerns for potential buyers, as the value of such rights may be questionable if they have not been in use.

The meeting also touched on the implications of property annexation by neighboring cities, such as Cason City or Venice Fort. It was clarified that water rights remain independent of county boundaries, meaning that annexation would not affect the ownership or validity of existing water rights.

Throughout the meeting, officials encouraged attendees to ask further questions about forfeiture and other related topics, offering to provide additional information after the formal proceedings concluded. The discussions highlighted the complexities surrounding water rights in the region and the importance of understanding the legal frameworks that govern them.

Overall, the meeting served as a platform for clarifying critical issues related to water rights, ensuring that property owners are informed about their rights and responsibilities in the context of ongoing adjudication processes.