                                 CODE OF VIRGINIA

DEFINITIONS (§ 62.1-10)

As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings
respectively ascribed to them:

a. &#8220;Water&#8221; includes all waters, on the surface and under the ground,
wholly or partially within or bordering the Commonwealth or within its
jurisdiction and which affect the public welfare.

b. &#8220;Beneficial use&#8221; means both instream and offstream uses. Instream
beneficial uses include, but are not limited to, the protection of fish and
wildlife habitat, maintenance of waste assimilation, recreation, navigation, and
cultural and aesthetic values. Offstream beneficial uses include, but are not
limited to, domestic (including public water supply), agricultural, electric
power generation, commercial and industrial uses. Public water supply uses for
human consumption shall be considered the highest priority.

HISTORY: Code 1950, § 62-9.1; 1954, c. 330; 1958, c. 413; 1968, c. 659; 1989,
c. 410.