SALEM -- Salem has agreed to sell part of its water rights on the Willamette River to Hillsboro. If the deal is approved, Hillsboro will pay Salem $16.2 million.



The Statesman Journal reports Salem plans to use the money to improve its water infrastructure.



Salem officials say the city doesn't need the water, but one conservation group is objecting, saying the plan could endanger fish and river health.



John DeVoe, executive director of WaterWatch of Oregon, said sales like this encourage speculation in water in the Willamette Valley and across the state.



Cities throughout Oregon are sitting on millions of gallons in old, unused water rights.



The state granted the claims when municipalities submitted plans to build treatment plants and use the water.



The claims aren't permanent until the water actually is used. But the Oregon Water Resources Department has issued multiple extensions.



-- The Associated Press