Section 73March 3, 1995, Sec./Art. 73

Water Rights

A contractor shall have water rights for mining operations upon approval of application with the appropriate government agency in accordance with existing water laws, rules and regulations promulgated thereunder: Provided, That water rights already granted or vested through long use, recognized and acknowledged by local customs, laws, and decisions of courts shall not thereby be impaired: Provided, further, That the Government reserves the right to regulate water rights and the reasonable and equitable distribution of water supply so as to prevent the monopoly of the use thereof.