Decree sets water-rights for Big Horn River basin

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) – A Wyoming judge has signed a decree to end 37 years of water-rights cases in the Big Horn River basin.

The proceedings began in 1977 with a complaint meant to decide how to divide the rights between federal, tribal and state interests.

The Casper Star-Tribune reports the decree signed by Judge Robert E. Skar Friday finalizes all of the interim orders that have been entered over the years.

The ruling will be finalized after a final appeal period.

State Engineer Pat Tyrrell says federal and tribal water rights are now clear.

Eastern Shoshone Attorney General Kimberly Varilek says the process caused some discord among Native American tribes, but their rights are mostly assured.

Big Horn water rights cases will be returned to the jurisdiction of the state engineer’s office.

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Information from: Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune, http://www.trib.com