CO HB1168

Allows unincorporated ditch associations to operate as unincorporated acequia ditch associations if the ditch meets acequia requirements and members agree to operate under acequia rules.

Permits unincorporated acequia ditch associations to specify in bylaws that they have a right of first refusal on the sale, lease, or exchange of surface water rights historically used to irrigate long-lot land.

Defines "nonprofit association" to explicitly include acequia ditch associations, whether incorporated or unincorporated, for purposes of Colorado nonprofit association law.

Removes the requirement that an acequia ditch supply irrigation water only to long lots perpendicular to the stream or ditch.

Takes effect August 7, 2013, or if subject to referendum petition, upon approval by voters at the November 2014 general election.