Section 45-103 - Scope of authority and responsibility of department and directorA. The department, through the director, succeeds to the authority, powers, duties and responsibilities of the Arizona water commission and the state water engineer relating to surface water, groundwater and dams and reservoirs.B. The director has general control and supervision of surface water, its appropriation and distribution, and of groundwater to the extent provided by this title, except distribution of water reserved to special officers appointed by courts under existing judgments or decrees.