Colo. using 19th century claims to decide water shortage disputes

Colo. using 19th century claims to decide water shortage disputes

September 11, 2012 4:23 PM

Gary Hanks controls the water supply for two dozen Colorado ranches and farms. His job has been difficult this year following the country's devastating drought. Jim Axelrod reports the water commissioner uses a system of inherited claims reaching back to the 19th century to decide who gets water first.

  • Recommended
  • Oklahoma: A state frequented by tragedy Oklahoma: A state frequented by tragedy

    2:01 May 21, 2013

  • Tornado survivor: Tornado survivor: "I'm very lucky I am still here"

    1:03 May 21, 2013

  • Tornado injuries: A doctor's point of view Tornado injuries: A doctor's point of view

    2:29 May 21, 2013

  • Predicting the tornado: How science can save lives Predicting the tornado: How science can save lives

    2:24 May 21, 2013

  • Inspiring stories emerge from destruction in Oklahoma Inspiring stories emerge from destruction in Oklahoma

    1:42 May 21, 2013

  • Storm chasers run toward danger Storm chasers run toward danger

    4:15 May 21, 2013

  • Plaza Towers Elementary School: A look at the damage Plaza Towers Elementary School: A look at the damage

    2:25 May 21, 2013