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Simple English definitions for legal terms
natural watercourse
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A quick definition of natural watercourse:
A natural watercourse is a body of water that flows in a defined channel with banks and a bed. This includes rivers, creeks, springs, lakes, and marshes that have flowing streams. It does not include man-made ditches or canals. Once water joins a natural watercourse, it becomes subject to state control and can be used for private purposes according to state law. Riparian rights can attach to a natural watercourse, but not to artificial watercourses.
A more thorough explanation:
A natural watercourse is a body of water that flows in a defined channel with banks and a bed. This can include rivers, creeks, springs, lakes, and marshes that have flowing streams. It does not include surface water that flows intermittently and in an indefinite channel.
For example, a river that flows through a valley with banks and a bed is a natural watercourse. However, a temporary stream that only flows during heavy rain and does not have a defined channel is not a natural watercourse.
It is important to note that an artificial watercourse, such as a man-made canal, may be considered a natural watercourse if it has been maintained for a sufficient length of time and has the characteristics of a natural watercourse.
Overall, a natural watercourse is a significant feature in water law as it determines the rights and regulations for water use and appropriation.