Then, below the water line, how long will it be before all is restored to its original state.... [/quote]
Mother Nature works to her own time schedule. Given one can't replant "old growth"; the valley would respond to the environment, and eventually get close to the rest of the area. People said Glen Canyon wouldn't return and would be ugly; if Lake Powell and the dam was removed: then the drought came. Yes, there is an intial 'ring'; however, the side canyons are responded very quickly. The problem for people is the time schedule is longer than our puny life cycle. It will be the children and grandchildren of those who make these changes; who will enjoy the end result. We'll just get to witness the initial steps....
Given the water recycling/reuse habits of the the SF Bay area; don't expect those people to pay their tax share of $8 mil. study and then to dismantle and replace their water source. Even if one or more of the uber wealthy were to donate the funds- that society won't accept that level of change to their lifestyle- too busy texting on their phones/pads, developing more apps ....
