California Code, Water Code - WAT § 43558

The owners of contiguous land have a preference for a period of thirty (30) days after the highest bid is announced to purchase at such highest bid price.  No right of preference shall be given in cases of owners of cornering land.

Where there is a conflict between two or more owners of contiguous land claiming a preference right of purchase, the one from whom such land was acquired by the district by eminent domain shall take preference.  If such prior owner does not assert a preference right to purchase, the property shall be sold to that owner of contiguous land claiming preference who, in the opinion of the board, by acquisition of such land would be enabled to make the most beneficial use thereof based on topography, land pattern, location of water, improvements and similar factors.

If no owners of contiguous land qualify within said thirty (30) day period the sale shall be declared closed and sale made to the highest bidder.