Watering the Fields: The Vital Role of Water in Rural Properties

Access to a reliable water supply can significantly increase the value and desirability of land, particularly in areas where water is scarce or where agricultural or other water-intensive activities are prevalent. A property with a secure water source can command a higher price than a similar property without such resources. This is because water availability and quality can directly impact the productivity and profitability of agricultural operations, commercial ventures that rely on water, and enhance the aesthetic appeal and recreational potential of a property.? In this edition of Rural Rich, I’ll introduce key water features to know.

Know Your Rights

Before purchasing land it is critical to do your due diligence and understand your right to any water on or below the property.? Water can be considered both a surface and subsurface right depending on the context.

In terms of surface rights, water that flows across or accumulates on the surface of a property is generally considered part of the surface rights associated with that property. This includes water in streams, rivers, lakes, ponds, or other bodies of water that are visible above ground. The owner of the surface rights typically has the right to use this water for various purposes such as irrigation, recreation, or drinking water supply.

On the other hand, groundwater or water located beneath the surface of the land is generally considered a subsurface right. This includes water found in underground aquifers or wells that require drilling or excavation to access. Subsurface water rights can be separate from surface rights and may be owned or leased by a different party than the surface rights holder. In some jurisdictions, there may be specific laws or regulations governing the extraction and use of groundwater resources to ensure sustainable management and prevent over-extraction or contamination.

Value Enhancing Water Features

• Live water refers to a natural water source that is flowing or moving, such as a river, stream, or creek. It is called "live" because it is not stagnant and is constantly replenished by springs, rain, or snowmelt. Live water can be used for various purposes such as irrigation, drinking water supply, recreation, and habitat for aquatic life. In the context of real estate, live water can be a valuable asset for properties located near or adjacent to it, as it can enhance the aesthetic appeal and increase the property value.

• Stock Tank is a type of water storage tank that is typically used in rural areas to provide water for livestock such as cattle, horses, and sheep. These tanks are usually made of metal, such as galvanized steel or aluminum, and are designed to be durable and able to withstand harsh weather conditions. They are often placed in fields or pastures where animals graze, providing them with easy access to drinking water. Some stock tanks have built-in floats or other mechanisms to ensure that the water level remains constant, while others may need to be manually filled periodically.

• Rain catchment is a method of collecting and storing rainwater that falls on a property. The system typically includes a roof or other surface to capture the rainwater, gutters or downspouts to direct the water into a storage tank or cistern, and a distribution system to deliver the stored water for various uses. Rain catchment systems can be simple or complex depending on the size of the property and the intended use of the collected water. For example, a small residential property might use a single rain barrel connected to a downspout to collect rainwater for irrigating a garden or washing a car. On larger properties, such as farms or commercial buildings, more extensive rain catchment systems may be installed to provide water for livestock, irrigation, or even potable drinking water after proper filtration and treatment.

• Water Well is a type of well that is drilled or dug into the ground to access underground aquifers and extract potable water for various uses such as drinking, irrigation, or industrial processes. Water wells can vary in depth depending on the location and geology of the area, but they typically range from a few feet to several hundred feet deep. The process of drilling a water well involves using specialized equipment to bore a hole through soil and rock layers until an aquifer is reached. Once the aquifer is accessed, a casing is inserted into the hole to maintain stability and prevent contaminants from entering the well. A pump is then installed to extract water from the well and deliver it to the surface for use.? Wells can be powered by electricity or solar.

• ?Irrigation in agriculture is the artificial application of water to crops or soil to supplement natural rainfall when it is insufficient or irregular. The primary purpose of irrigation is to provide plants with the necessary amount of water for growth and development, especially during periods of drought or in regions with low annual rainfall. Some common irrigation techniques include sprinkler irrigation, drip irrigation, and center pivot irrigation.

Conclusion

When investing in rural land, understanding water rights and value-enhancing features is crucial. Know your surface and subsurface rights to effectively utilize water resources within local regulations. Live water sources, stock tanks, rain catchment systems, and water wells can increase property value and functionality. Familiarity with irrigation methods like sprinkler, drip, or center pivot irrigation can optimize crop yields and profitability. By learning these vital water concepts, you make informed decisions when acquiring or developing rural properties, fostering long-term success and sustainability.