The cost structure and usage defies any simple explanation. Meaning that it's not easy to tie up in a HN comment. Honestly, each waterway can have it's own rul

The cost structure and usage defies any simple explanation. Meaning that it's not easy to tie up in a HN comment. Honestly, each waterway can have it's own rules and it's own rights. In CO, until recently, you weren't able to collect rainwater from your own roof, as that water was already earmarked for the right's holder of the water the second it touched the ground. They've changed that and are more in line with other states, but such strange little provisions and regulations exist in other manners all over the US West. I wouldn't doubt your stats on water usage though, 80% is the right ballpark. But again, that system is the result of a bazillion little laws and regulations that would each have their day in court.