Water is key to California’s farming industry, which accounts for roughly 80% of the state’s total water consumption. As the state experiences more droughts and hot weather due to global warming, it’s increasingly important for California to supply enough water to farms. A study from the University of California sheds light on ways to capture, store, and distribute water more effectively. Groundwater aquifers are key players. When managed properly, they are more sustainable and efficient than surface level reservoirs.
Water and Climate Change
The amount of rain and other precipitation hasn’t changed significantly. However, rainfall events are fewer in number but more intense.
Climate change has also led to faster water evaporation because of higher average temperatures, especially in the warmer seasons.
Groundwater Aquifers
Building dams and reservoirs is an effortful task that takes decades. They can also overflow or evaporate.
On the other hand, over time, aquifers have been becoming depleted because of over-pumping water from them. This can lead to the land around them sinking, which is what is happening in the Central Valley. When land shifts like this, buildings and highways are at risk of degrading. The surrounding environment can also be harmed.
Groundwater aquifers avoid all of the above problems. They can also store extra water for droughts.
California’s water shortage is less about the quantity of water and more about storing and managing it. Recently, the state experienced two wet seasons, but most of the water was not stored properly. .
Infrastructure for Aquifer Recharging
The University of California study suggests the state needs more managed aquifer recharge (MAR) infrastructure.
MAR uses water redistribution systems and other infrastructure to recharge aquifers at low levels. It can also take the form of spraying water on land.
Water Monitoring
Monitoring and measurement aquifers will help California make sure they recharge effectively. While the state has put more monitoring practices into place than other states, not all of them are accurate or complete. There are no federal regulations in place for monitoring or reporting water usage.
Water Trading Markets
Additionally, the researchers of the study recommend California to try water markets, where farmers with excess water can sell to farmers lacking it. Since both parties gain something (profit for the seller, water for the buyer), these markets would be an incentive for citizens to manage their water.
The researchers emphasized the need for a strong framework if water markets are going to work. The costs, data, and roles of both sellers and buyers must be clear.
Treating Wastewater
The study also notes how important it is to reuse water, including wastewater. In the past, wastewater is processed and then released into oceans or groundwater. This is a lengthy process. It would be quicker for water treatment plants to filter and reuse the wastewater to water crops, recharge aquifers, and other uses. Since this year, plants are able to purify wastewater enough for people to drink it safely.
Main Takeaway: Managing Water Better
The researchers of the study consistently highlight the key problem that fuels California’s water shortage crisis. It’s not quantity. It’s management.
If farmers, the government, organizations, and the general public are more careful about the water they use and store, the state will be better off.
References:
https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2310079121
The Key to Fix California’s Inadequate Water Storage? Put Water Underground, Scientists Say
