This article is missing a HUGE element, namely a discussion of the difference between diversion rights and consumption rights. If a farmer diverts 10AF of water, 2-3AF may evaporate, but the rest returns to the river. If that same farmer sells 10AF to a city, the groundwater is NOT recharged, reducing flow in the river and available water for all. I *sure hope* that OSE is taking these differences into account. If not, the river will be dry long before "all" the rights are sold.
This article is missing a HUGE element, namely a discussion of the difference between diversion rights and consumption rights. If a farmer diverts 10AF of water, 2-3AF may evaporate, but the rest returns to the river. If that same farmer sells 10AF to a city, the groundwater is NOT recharged, reducing flow in the river and available water for all. I *sure hope* that OSE is taking these differences into account. If not, the river will be dry long before "all" the rights are sold.