Climate Change, Drought, and Groundwater Access in California

California passed the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) almost a decade ago as a step to bring the states’ depleted groundwater aquifers to sustainability. With increased droughts, the implementation of SGMA and protection of vulnerable communities dependent on small water systems and domestic wells is urgent. Over the last 2 years, Clean Water Action has reviewed and analyzed over 95 groundwater sustainability plans, in every groundwater basin covered by SGMA, closely evaluating the steps local agencies are taking to protect vulnerable communities.

Groundwater resources play a vital role in maintaining environmental sustainability in California, serving as a critical buffer against the impacts of drought and climate change. This report focuses on stakeholder engagement and projected impacts of groundwater decline on underrepresented farmers.