I have to wonder if this result is due to increased evaporation (from the dam surface) or increased transpiration (from non-irrigated and irrigated fields). With oxygen isotope analysis the two can be distinguished.<p>This type of analysis reveals that trees are responsible for about 80% of all terrestrial rainfall.[1] In contrast to man-made desalination facilities, this water falls freely as rain instead of being owned and controlled.<p>Global deforestation&#x2F;desertification is perversely convenient for those interests vying to control water, since in a very real way it eliminates the competition.<p>[1] <a href="http:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.nature.com&#x2F;nature&#x2F;journal&#x2F;v496&#x2F;n7445&#x2F;abs&#x2F;nature11983.html" rel="nofollow">http:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.nature.com&#x2F;nature&#x2F;journal&#x2F;v496&#x2F;n7445&#x2F;abs&#x2F;nature11...</a>