What is the gradual recession of water that uncovers land belonging to the riparian owner called?

The gradual recession of water that uncovers land previously covered by water is referred to as reliction. This concept is important in understanding riparian rights, which pertain to the rights of landowners adjacent to bodies of water. When water recedes slowly, the land that becomes exposed typically belongs to the riparian owner. This occurs without any sudden change, distinguishing it from other phenomena like avulsion, which involves a rapid change in the land caused by natural forces. In the context of property rights, reliction can result in an increase in the landowner's property, as they gain legal ownership of the newly exposed land.

Understanding this term is vital for surveyors and professionals involved in land management and legal aspects of water rights, emphasizing the interplay between natural water changes and land ownership.