Which of the following refers to the doctrine granting a state power over water resources?

The doctrine granting a state power over water resources is best captured by the concept of prior appropriation. This principle is primarily applied in jurisdictions where water is a scarce resource. It establishes a legal framework where the state determines the allocation of water rights based on the first user’s priority—essentially allowing those who first claim and use the water to maintain their right to it.

In essence, the doctrine of prior appropriation assigns priority to water use, thereby ensuring that users who established their water rights first are protected against newer claims. This system is significant in agricultural and industrial contexts, where water access is crucial for sustainability and development.

In contrast, water rights generally refer to the overall entitlements to use water, which encompasses various forms and regulations, not exclusively tied to state power. Riparian rights are specific rights owned by landowners whose property is adjacent to water bodies, focusing on natural use. Usufruct rights pertain to the temporary use of someone else’s property and are not specific to water resources. Thus, the correct answer highlights a specific doctrine that outlines state authority over water resources rather than other frameworks or rights related to water usage.