If you wish to become an informed Seller or Buyer of Montana Water Rights or real estate that includes Water Rights, it is imperative that you understand the basic concepts, laws and processes that determine if a particular “Water Right” is valid and suitable for its intended use(s). We provide more details on the following topics in our document “Understanding Water Rights in Montana,” available on request in our Water Free Information Center.

TOPICS
State of Montana Owns the Water
Doctrine of Prior Appropriation – first in time, first in right
Beneficial Use
Use It or Lose It
Documentation of a Perfected Water Right
Water Rights are Transferable
Water Rights Can Be Changed
A Water Rights Report Benefits All Parties