Using a formula developed at the University of California at Davis and adopted by the state, the agency knows how much water is needed by every crop from grass to, well avocados. Pump more water from the aquifer than needed in a year, and the penalties are in effect. Thus, the screws are slowly being turned, forcing Ventura county farms to use water wisely and efficiently. Dave Koontz is way ahead. If it ever was free, it is no longer.
Conservation is the norm.
Maybe it takes someone like Dave Koontz to show the way. Maybe on a space engineer, used to technology and trusting instrumentation over human instincts, could come up with his automated system. And maybe it isn't for everyone. But he sure is pointing to the future. S. Kellogg Ave.