Which legal framework governs water use in California?

The California Water Code is the primary legal framework governing water use in California. It establishes the regulation of water rights, allocation, and management within the state. This code is essential for overseeing various aspects of water use, including surface water and groundwater management, ensuring that water resources are allocated fairly and sustainably to meet the needs of all users, from agricultural to municipal.

The California Water Code addresses specific provisions for water rights, including riparian and appropriative rights, and sets forth guidelines for water conservation, quality, and environmental protection. By providing a comprehensive legal structure, it ensures that water resources are managed in a manner that considers both human needs and environmental health.

In contrast, the other options refer to federal laws that, while they have implications for water quality and ecosystem protection, do not specifically govern the allocation and management of water use in California. The Clean Water Act primarily regulates the discharge of pollutants into bodies of water, the National Environmental Policy Act mandates environmental assessments for federal projects, and the Endangered Species Act focuses on the protection of threatened species and their habitats rather than on direct water management.