45-171. Effect of chapter on vested water
rights
Nothing in this chapter shall impair vested rights to the use of water, affect
relative priorities to the use of water determined by a judgment or decree of a court, or
impair the right to acquire property by the exercise of the right of eminent domain when
conferred by law. The right to take and use water shall not be impaired or affected by
the provisions of this chapter when appropriations have been initiated under and in
compliance with prior existing laws and the appropriators have in good faith and in
compliance with such laws commenced the construction of works for application of the
water so appropriated to a beneficial use and prosecuted the work diligently and
continuously, but the rights shall be adjudicated as provided in this chapter.
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