The digest begins with a discussion of the basic rule of common law--that each riparian proprietor has the right to have the stream come down to him with its quality unimpaired and with its quantity undiminished-and indicates the manner in which this rule has been qualified by other common-law principles and by changing conditions. This section is followed by a discussion of the interpretation given the important statutes on the subject in court decisions. The digest bears very closely upon the subject of the control of stream pollution, and the limitations of such control under the law and under the precedents of the courts are indicated. The obligation imposed by the Government upon itself in the treaty with England regarding the boundary waters between the United States and Canada (January 11, 1909) is emphasized.

Microfiche.