You’re navigating a water right application or trying to finalize a permit, and you hit a roadblock. The communication from the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) mentions a “final proof survey” or a “claim of beneficial use,” and you realize this isn’t a DIY project. What now?
In the world of Oregon water rights, these critical steps require a specialist. Oregon has a special class of professional specifically certified to handle these complex final stages: the Certified Water Right Examiner (CWRE).
Understanding what a CWRE is and when you need one is fundamental to securing your water rights. This article will demystify their role and explain why they are a crucial partner in protecting your water assets.
What is a Certified Water Right Examiner (CWRE)?
A Certified Water Right Examiner is a highly qualified professional who is licensed as either a Professional Land Surveyor or Professional Engineer and has been additionally certified by the OWRD.
To earn this certification, a professional must pass a rigorous, multi-day examination covering the intricacies of Oregon’s water laws, statutes, and OWRD’s technical procedures. This isn’t a simple rubber stamp; it’s a testament to their deep understanding of how water rights are legally documented and perfected. The key takeaway is that while many professionals can help with parts of the water right process, only a CWRE can perform the specific tasks required to finalize your right.
When Do You Need to Hire a CWRE?
While a CWRE’s advice is valuable at any stage, there are specific moments in the water right lifecycle where their services are mandated by law.
1. The Final Proof Survey (Proving Up a Permit)
When the OWRD grants a water right permit, it gives you a specific timeframe to construct your water system and put the water to beneficial use. This is your “development period.” To convert that permit into a permanent, final water right certificate, you must “prove up.” The Final Proof Survey is the official report that documents this. A CWRE must:
- Conduct a field survey of your water system.
- Prepare a map to OWRD’s exact standards.
- Submit a detailed report confirming the location and extent of your water use.
Without a CWRE’s signed and stamped survey, you cannot get your final water right certificate.
2. Filing a Claim of Beneficial Use (CBU)
In some cases, such as with water right transfers or when making a claim on an older, uncertificated use, you must file a Claim of Beneficial Use. Similar to a proof survey, this requires a detailed map and report prepared by a CWRE to officially document the water use for the OWRD.
3. Amending or Correcting a Water Right Certificate
What if the map on your final water right certificate is inaccurate? Perhaps the ditch location changed slightly over the years, or the irrigated field’s shape is wrong. To correct the public record and ensure your certificate reflects reality, you need to file for a map amendment, which must be prepared by a CWRE.
The Broader Benefits of a CWRE on Your Team
Hiring a CWRE provides value far beyond these legally required tasks.
- Expert Navigation: CWREs work with the OWRD regularly. They know the processes, the technical standards, and the people, helping to ensure your submissions are right the first time, avoiding costly delays.
- Strategic Insight: Because of their deep knowledge, a CWRE can provide invaluable advice on the feasibility of a new application or transfer before you invest time and money.
- Integrated Expertise: When your CWRE is also a Professional Land Surveyor, you get a powerful combination. They can handle everything from the initial property boundary survey to the final, certified water right map. This creates a seamless, efficient process from start to finish.
Secure Your Investment with a Certified Expert
Your water right is one of the most valuable assets associated with your property. Leaving its finalization to chance is a risky proposition. A Certified Water Right Examiner is the state-certified expert required to secure your right and ensure it is accurately documented for generations to come.