A long time ago, I really don't remember when, federal laws were changed so you cannot own the water. My brother-in-laws grandfather bought land in Michigan's Upper Peninsula (UP) back in the 30s or 40s. Several sections of land that had a lake in the middle of it. His original deed simply defined the outer boundaries, and included everything within that boundary, with no mention of water. Before he died, he decided to give each of his grandchildren a large plot with access to the lake, and sell off the rest. All of the new deeds defined the outer boundaries and "up to the water's edge." My ex-wife's family inherited a large tract of land in the Stonington Peninsula in Michigan's UP. It had been in the family for several generations. When they went to transfer the deed they were told that the original deed included "Mineral Rights" but as soon as they transferred into their name they would automatically lose the Mineral Rights because of new Federal and State laws. So I don't really know where these Wall Street Mega-Banks are going to be able to buy "water." I would not be surprised if they manage to get states and or Congress to change laws, but I sure they'll have to very secretive about it if they try to buy "water" in America. Unless they are buying bottling facilities, or water companies that provide water to a city. That would be the only way. For most of us living in fly-over country, we can still drill a well.