Sec. 2. Board of control. There shall be constituted a board of control, to be composed of the state engineer and superintendents of the water divisions; which shall, under such regulations as may be prescribed by law, have the supervision of the waters of the state and of their appropriation, distribution and diversion, and of the various officers connected therewith. Its decisions to be subject to review by the courts of the state.
Sec. 3. Priority of appropriation. Priority of appropriation for beneficial uses shall give the better right. No appropriation shall be denied except when such denial is demanded by the public interests.
Sec. 4. Water divisions. The legislature shall by law divide the state into four (4) water divisions, and provide for the appointment of superintendents thereof.
Sec. 5. State engineer. There shall be a state engineer who shall be appointed by the governor of the state and confirmed by the senate; he shall hold his office for the term of six (6) years, or until his successor shall have been appointed and shall have qualified. He shall be president of the board of control, and shall have general supervision of the waters of the state and of the officers connected with its distribution. No person shall be appointed to this position who has not such theoretical knowledge and such practical experience and skill as shall fit him for the position.
ARTICLE 9
MINES AND MINING
Sec. 1. Inspector of mines. There shall be established and maintained the office of inspector of mines, the duties of which shall be prescribed by law.
This section was amended by a resolution adopted by the 1989 legislature, ratified by a vote of the people at the general election held on November 6, 1990, and proclaimed in effect on November 28, 1990.
Sec. 2. Legislature to enact regulatory laws. The legislature shall provide by law for the proper development, ventilation, drainage and operation of all mines in this state.
Sec. 3. Restrictions on employment in mines. [Repealed.]
This section was repealed by a resolution adopted by the 1977 legislature, ratified by a vote of the people at the general election held on November 7, 1978, and proclaimed in effect on November 25, 1978.
