Which type of water right is a “Type 1 right” in Arizona?

A "Type 1 right" in Arizona refers to a water right that is associated with beneficial use. This classification is foundational to Arizona water law, which is primarily guided by the principle of "beneficial use." Under this principle, water rights are established and maintained based on the actual beneficial use of water. Thus, a Type 1 right signifies that the water is allocated for purposes that provide a tangible benefit, which is in line with the goals of efficient water management and conservation.

The emphasis on beneficial use aligns with Arizona's focus on sustainably developing and using limited water resources. It ensures that water rights are not just given for arbitrary reasons but must serve a purpose that benefits the user and often the surrounding environment or community.

In contrast, a right for temporary water use would not align with the permanence and recognition associated with Type 1 rights, which are meant for ongoing beneficial activities. Rights for recreational water activities or solely for environmental protection do not fit within the classification of Type 1 rights, as they do not directly involve the type of beneficial use that water law prioritizes for securing and maintaining water rights in Arizona.