Section 72-12A-13 - Existing water rights recognized.
72-12A-13. Existing water rights recognized.
Existing water rights based upon application to beneficial use are hereby recognized. Nothing herein contained is intended to impair the same or to disturb the priorities thereof. Nothing in the Mine Dewatering Act [72-12A-1 to 72-12A-13 NMSA 1978] shall be construed to permit condemnation of water rights and the owner of a water right shall not be considered to have forfeited or abandoned his rights under that act.