The Imperial Valley Water Authority (IVWA) was established in 1989 by referendum. lt comprises all of Mason County and four townships in Tazewell County. IVWA operates under the Water Authorities Act of 1951. (70ILCS 3715/). The act gives the trustees various powers, one of which is ‘To reasonably regulate the use of water and during any period of actual or threatened shortage, to establish limits upon or priorities as to the use of water.’, excluding water used for agricultural and most domestic purposes. The powers include the following requirements: the provision by well owners of data and information on water supply, withdrawals and use; the registration of withdrawal facilities; the permitting of withdrawals; the reasonable regulation of water use; and the levy and collection of a general property tax.