California can now measure exactly how much water is wasted, and by whom

Researchers have developed a new way to measure how much water is misallocated in California. This method combines detailed farm data, water usage, and historical rights to pinpoint where water is used inefficiently and who benefits from current rules.

California has always struggled with water scarcity. But knowing exactly where water is wasted has been difficult. This new method gives water managers and regulators a precise map of inefficiencies, down to individual farms and specific water rights. It means they can now identify who benefits from current water rules and where changes would have the biggest impact on water availability and cost.