The sale of the irrigation works, franchises, and property of an irrigation district shall not affect or impair vested water rights, and the right to the use of water acquired under the laws of this state shall be assigned to the purchaser of the irrigation works of the district or to the individual electors of the district in accordance with section 61-04-15. Chapter 61-04 governs all water permits and water rights acquired by an irrigation district, including any water permits or water rights which may be assigned by an irrigation district.