Sadly, the optimism expressed by members of the Upper Colorado River Commission is just wishful thinking. They, better than anyone, know the principle: “First in time, first in right” (FITFIR). They know California has a claim to their full allotment granted in the 1922 Compact, before any others get theirs. California will keep their rights after the 1922 Compact expires based on precedent law known as “prior appropriation water rights.”
Can you imagine a Utah alfalfa farmer with such FITFIR, giving up a portion of his allotment to the detriment of his livelihood?
No way. Commissioners, keep dreaming.
Jon Bischoff, Salt Lake City
