Nebraska § 46-613 - Ground water; declaration of policy; preference in use.
Full text of Nebraska Revised Statutes of Nebraska § 46-613 — Ground water; declaration of policy; preference in use., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 46-613. Ground water; declaration of policy; preference in use.
Preference in the use of ground water shall be given to those using the water for domestic purposes. They shall have preference over those claiming it for any other purpose. Those using the water for agricultural purposes shall have the preference over those using the same for manufacturing or industrial purposes.
As used in this section, (1) domestic use of ground water shall mean all uses of ground water required for human needs as it relates to health, fire control, and sanitation and shall include the use of ground water for domestic livestock as related to normal farm and ranch operations and (2) agricultural purposes shall include, but not be limited to, aquaculture as defined in section 2-3804.01.
Defendant liable in damages for withdrawal of irrigation ground water resulting in loss of artesian pressure in plaintiffs' adjacent domestic use wells. Prather v. Eisenmann, 200 Neb. 1, 261 N.W.2d 766 (1978).
The use of ground water by a municipality for human needs is a public use. Metropolitan Utilities Dist. v. Merritt Beach Co., 179 Neb. 783, 140 N.W.2d 626 (1966).
Source: official Nebraska text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Nebraska § 46-613
What does Revised Statutes of Nebraska § 46-613 cover?
Section 46-613 ("Ground water; declaration of policy; preference in use.") is part of the Revised Statutes of Nebraska, the codified statutory law of Nebraska. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Nebraska § 46-613?
A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Nebraska § 46-613" (Nebraska). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Nebraska law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Nebraska official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Nebraska attorney.
How does Nebraska § 46-613 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Nebraska can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Nebraska.