THE USE OF WATER PRICING AS A MEANS FOR ENHANCING WATER-USE EFFICIENCY IN IRRIGATION - CASE-STUDIES IN MEXICO AND THE UNITED-STATES

The role of water markets in enhancing irrigation water use efficiency is examined. Questions arise, however, concerning equity effects of w ater markets. A ''middle ground'' is discussed related to water rights transfers in the western U.S. where a ''brokers'' role for the BuRec is evolving. The result is a marketlike institution wherein gains in e fficiency are achieved and third-party interests are protected. Mexico 's concerns with equity implications of water transfers might easily b e accommodated with this kind of institution.