One of the most controversial pieces of real estate in the San Luis Valley isn’t because of anything it’s got above ground, but because of the water below it. Water is needed for all living things to survive. It can also be controlled and has been by civilizations for millennia. So how is it decided where the water goes and what it can be used for? 

In order to understand this, we must understand how water rights work.

This is episode two of Water, Under Pressure, a podcast about the increasing demands on water in Colorado. And how the choices we make now could tear us apart or help us to navigate our uncertain future.

Learn more about the podcast and people featured at waterunderpressure.org.Sign-up for the Institute for Science & Policy’s mailing list.

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The Institute for Science & Policy is a catalyst for thoughtful dialogue, working toward solutions on society’s greatest challenges with scientific thinking, empathy, and inclusivity. The Institute is a project of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. The podcast was produced in partnership with House of Pod. 

Episode Credits:Reporting, writing, hosting: Kristan UhlenbrockReporting, writing, production: Cat JaffeeProduction: Ann Marie Awad Additional reporting and fact checking: Nicole Delaney and Kate LongTheme music: Alex Paul, Birds of PlayEpisode composition: Jesse Boynton with tracks from Epidemic Sounds Sound design: Ameeta Ganatra and Seth SamuelMarketing: Tricia Waddell

A special thanks to Trent Knoss and George Sparks