Any person, corporation or association may exercise the right of eminent domain to acquire right-of-way for the storage or conveyance of water for beneficial use, including the right to enlarge existing structures, and use the same in common with the former owner. Such right-of-way shall in all cases be so located as to do the least damage to private or public property, consistent with proper and economical engineering construction. Such rights may be acquired in the manner provided by law for the taking of private property for public use.
Laws 1972, c. 256, § 3.