The Water Nectar, and the Rocks Pure Gold: Finding a Legal Structure to Facilitate Necessary Change in California's Jewel, the Delta

Authors

Kakuti M. Lin

Abstract

The Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta region is unique in terms of its natural resources and disproportionate economic impact on the State of California. Several aspects of its history have also given rise to unusual legal problems affecting property rights in both land and water. The fragility of the current levee and water supply systems, along with the many different public and private parties with interests at stake, combine to make an untenable situation that has been difficult to change. This Note explores some possible legal consequences of the way in which the region developed, and describes property rights transfer systems applicable to the area. Finally, this Note proposes a legal clarification that would change incentives in the region and that might be useful in moving away from the status quo.

Recommended Citation

Kakuti M. Lin, The Water Nectar, and the Rocks Pure Gold: Finding a Legal Structure to Facilitate Necessary Change in California's Jewel, the Delta, 60 Hastings L.J. 647 (2009).
Available at: https://repository.uclawsf.edu/hastings_law_journal/vol60/iss3/4