Efficient Water Use in California

Examines the evolution of groundwater management in Southern California and discusses how to improve the efficiency of water use. Reviews problems that prompted groundwater management, factors considered by water users in developing diverse management solutions, and institutional arrangements established in each basin. The report specifically discusses growth of management by court adjudication or water district in the following groundwater basins: Raymond, West Coast, Central, Upper Los Angeles River Area, Orange County, Main San Gabriel, Tehachapi, and Chino. Key factors influencing institutional development explored are: (1) a water deficiency; (2) availability of imported water; (3) ways to cut back use and distribute costs; (4) hydrology; (5) uncertain physical facts; (6) local leadership; (7) legal issues; (8) activities of overlying water agencies, and (9) absence of state policy. From the experience of these areas, the report draws policy implications for the San Joaquin and Sacramento Valleys, and makes policy suggestions for legislative consideration.