ClimateAugust 15, 2026

overappropriation

oh-ver-uh-PROH-pree-AY-shun

Definition

The act of allocating, granting, or claiming more water rights than are physically available in a natural water source.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix 'over-' (excessive) and the Latin 'appropriare' (to make one's own or to reserve for a specific use), which entered English via Old French.

In the news

An expert suggests that failing to account for the overappropriation of the Colorado River, where rights exceed actual water volume, is a critical oversight in major water infrastructure projects.

Can a Dam Expansion Hold Back Climate Considerations on the Colorado River?

Read the full article ↗

Inside Climate News

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