About Us

Mission

The mission of the Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR) is to responsibly manage Nevada’s limited water resources in accordance with State law and best available science.

Vision

NDWR is dedicated to actively managing water resources for the benefit of Nevada citizens in a way that protects the resource for long-term sustainability, and to provide the public access to information, assistance and exemplary service in performing the duties and responsibilities of the Division.

About NDWR

NDWR was created in 1903 to provide a means to adjudicate water rights in Nevada. NDWR’s role and responsibilities have expanded significantly over the years, and currently encompass the following core functions:

  • Quantifying existing water rights
  • Monitoring water use
  • Distributing water in accordance with court decrees
  • Reviewing water availability for new subdivisions and condominiums
  • Regulating the construction and safe operation of dams
  • Appropriating geothermal water
  • Licensing and regulating well drillers and water rights surveyors
  • Maintaining water resource data and records
  • Providing technical assistance to the public and governmental agencies
  • Developing and updating Nevada’s State Water Plan and coordinating drought response

NDWR has the authority to enforce Nevada’s Water Law under Title 48 of the Nevada Revised Statutes.

Housed within the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, NDWR is administered by the State Engineer and three Deputy Administrators, and the organizational chart is structured into major subject areas within NDWR's purview. The main office is in Carson City with four field offices in Las Vegas, Elko, Winnemucca, and Eureka. Extensive coordination among the various NDWR Sections is vital to fulfilling the collective mission of NDWR.

The State Engineer also appoints a Well Driller’s Advisory Board, a five-member body whose duties include examining and interviewing potential licensees regarding their knowledge and experience of well drilling and Nevada's well drilling regulations to make recommendations to approve or deny licensure.

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