Water rights refer to the legal entitlements that allow individuals or entities to use water from a specific source, such as rivers, lakes, or groundwater. These rights can vary based on location and are often governed by local, state, or national laws. They are essential for managing water resources, especially in areas where water is scarce. In many regions, water rights are categorized into two main types: riparian rights, which are linked to land ownership adjacent to a water source, and prior appropriation, which grants rights based on the first user of the water. Understanding these rights is crucial for sustainable water management and conflict resolution.