There actually is a detail here being overlooked. Growing alfalfa takes water. A very precious commodity in the West. I open this point up to debate - is this an indirect way of diverting that resource? Given the water needs in the West, is that wise? I lived out West, I know a bit about water concerns.
That’s a good question. I don’t know if this farmer gets his water for “free,” or not.
" ...the historic ranch comes with generous water rights..."
I'm a strong supporter of water rights so that's one thing I can't take a position against. Since it was an existing alfalfa farm when purchased, there's not much argument against his continued water use.
on the other hand, if he starts bottling it and exporting it to China, we're gonna need to talk to the fella