Water-saving technology initially reduced agricultural water use in Zhangye city from 2002 to 2007. However, this led to a rebound effect, causing total water use to increase from 2007 to 2012. The study highlights the challenges of managing water resources in the Heihe River Basin and suggests potential strategies for the future. The fishery sector still consumed a significant amount of water per unit output in 2012. This research emphasizes the importance of considering the water-ecosystem economy for integrated water resource management.