Climate Change, Drought, and Groundwater Access in California

As droughts continue, and become more frequent, our reliance on groundwater increases. During dry years, 60% of California’s water supply comes from groundwater. We must act now to ensure the Human Right to Water now and for future generations.

Looking at the sky from the bottom of a well

2025 Year in Review: Groundwater in California

It's been a decade since the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) was passed in California, and almost all groundwater basin managers and state agencies responsible for oversight are taking the law seriously. Clean Water Action has been fully engaged throughout the process, working with allies around the state to ensure that voices of local communities, small farmers and environmental representatives are included in these planning efforts.

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Achieving Groundwater Access For All | Page 1

Achieving Groundwater Access for All: Why Groundwater Sustainability Plans Are Failing Many Users

With increased droughts, the implementation of California's Sustainable Groundwater Management Act and protection of vulnerable communities dependent on small water systems and domestic wells is urgent.

Groundwater Sustainability Assessments - Report Cover

Groundwater Sustainability Assessments 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.

SGMA and Underrepresented Farmers: Impact of Groundwater Sustainability Plans

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.