What does "ordinary flow" mean in the context of water ownership?

In the context of water ownership, "ordinary flow" refers to the natural flow of water in a river or stream that is generally accessible to those who own land adjacent to it, known as riparian owners. This concept allows riparian owners to use the water for purposes such as irrigation and domestic needs, recognizing their rights to benefit from the water that naturally flows through or adjacent to their property. The principle of riparian rights supports sustainable use, meaning that these owners can utilize water without significantly harming the rights of other riparian owners downstream.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture this principle. For instance, suggesting that water is free for anyone to use for industrial purposes does not consider the ownership and rights associated with riparian property. Similarly, limiting usage to agricultural purposes overlooks the broader permissible uses like domestic consumption and recreational activities that riparian ownership allows. Finally, the notion that water can be accessed without ownership rights contradicts the basic legal framework governing water usage, which prioritizes the rights of landowners adjacent to the water source.