California Wells at Risk of Drying Up Despite Landmark Water Law

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Imagine that you are a resident of a disadvantaged community in California.

You rely on a well for your drinking water.

One day, you wake up to find that your well has run dry.

You are forced to truck in water, which is expensive and inconvenient.

This has recently been investigated, let's find out more!

Thousands of wells in California are at risk of drying up despite the state's landmark groundwater management law, according to a new study.

The researchers say that local agencies need to adopt more stringent measures to protect drinking water wells.

They also say that that the state needs to do more to support disadvantaged communities that are likely to be disproportionately affected.

The study found that more than 5,000 domestic wells could be left completely dry, while an additional 4,000 household wells could be "partially dewatered," leading to low water pressure.

The researchers estimate that 32% of the 29,567 domestic wells analyzed are at risk under the plans that agencies submitted, as well as 21% of the 5,259 wells that supply public water systems.

The study also found that nearly 40% of the wells in disadvantaged communities are at risk.

So, what to expect next?

The state is currently reviewing the groundwater management plans that local agencies have submitted.

The state could require local agencies to strengthen their plans or step in to manage groundwater resources directly.

The state is also providing funding to support groundwater management efforts, such as projects to capture stormwater, recharge aquifers, and equip monitoring wells.

What you can do:

– Contact your elected officials and urge them to support policies that protect groundwater resources and disadvantaged communities.

– Get involved in local groundwater management efforts. – Conserve water.

Yes, groundwater of many regions is at stake!

The findings of this study are a stark reminder of the challenges that California faces in managing its water resources.

The state's landmark groundwater management law is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to ensure that everyone has access to clean, safe water.

It is important to support disadvantaged communities that are likely to be disproportionately affected by groundwater depletion.