RFXOMMENDATIONS OF SPECIAL AGENTS AND EXPERTS. 



As has already been stated, each exj^eil in charge of an investigation 

 has based liis conehisions on the facts gathered in his particular field, and 

 these conclusions are made a part of his individual report. 



After the work was completed a conference of the experts was held at 

 Berkeley, which showed that there was a practical unanimity of opinion 

 among them regarding the more important measures necessary to develop 

 to the fullest extent the agricultural possibilities of California. The con- 

 clusions they reached and their recommendations ai-e given below. 



It is the dutv of the State: 



(1) To fix the priority and limitations of every existing light to water, 

 whether based on the ownership of riparian lands or on beneficial use. 



(2) To determine the volume of luiused or unappropriated waters. 



(3) To declare unappropriated water State property and define the 

 procedure whereby rights thei'eto may be acquired. 



(4) To exercise adequate supervision and control when new appropria- 

 tions are sought. 



(5) To provide an office in which shall be kept a complete record of 

 each perfected right, of each application and of each permit for a new 

 diversion or use. 



(6) To divide the State into administrative divisions and districts based 

 on drainage Imes. 



(7) To provide an efficient administrative system with proper officers 

 for the distinbution of the water supply among those entitled to its use. 



For the accomplishment of these pui-jjoses they recommend the follow- 

 ing legislation: 



BOARD OF CONTROL. 



(1) There should be created in California a special tribunal entitled 

 "The board of control of water," which shall have the determination of 

 existing water rights and the control of the establishment of rights hereafter. 

 This board shall consist of one attorney, one business man, and one civil 

 engineer, all of good character and established reputation, to be selected 

 and appointed by the supi-eme court of the State, and to hold otHce until 



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