California Code, Public Resources Code - PRC § 8508

This article is an exercise of the police power of the State, for the protection of the economic welfare and peace of the people of the State, and all of its provisions shall be liberally construed for the accomplishment of its purposes.  Nothing in this article shall be construed as amending or repealing existing law regarding the grazing use of the public lands or of water for the purpose of watering livestock or as modifying or compromising any valid rights or priorities as may exist therein at the time of its enactment.