@ned @JamesC @mrman
The streams, rivers, and underground aquifers are all subject to water rights.
https://waterknowledge.colostate.edu/water-management-administration/water-rights/
First beneficial use is the general rule for who gets that water first.
So you have young cities like Aurora CO having to buy water rights from groups who have more senior rights. We may have water restrictions despite Denver nearby not having restrictions due to it's more senior rights.
It sucks.