(a) Priority of appropriation gives prior right. Priority of appropriation does not include the right to prevent changes in the condition of water occurrence, such as the increase or decrease of stream flow, or the lowering of a water table, artesian pressure, or water level, by later appropriators, if the prior appropriator can reasonably acquire the appropriator's water under the changed conditions. (b) Priority of appropriation made under this chapter dates from the filing of an application with the commissioner. (c) Priority of appropriation perfected before July 1, 1966, shall be determined as provided in AS 46.15.065.
Alaska Legal Code