Problem #1

Intense agricultural development which cannot be fallowed during periods of drought has left groundwater in many years as the primary source of water for agriculture. San Joaquin Valley groundwater systems are depleted, contributing to land subsidence throughout California. Simultaneously, rain events in California are projected to become more and more intense in volume and duration making it difficult to quickly absorb water back into the groundwater system. Nevertheless, groundwater storage is still the best option for holding water for future use as it has a much lower trans-evaporation rate than water stored in surface water projects, and groundwater banks have a much smaller environmental footprint.

Objective of Solution:
1) Create smart systems that can replenish ground water storage by accelerated ground water pumping (while meeting state water treatment standards) either underneath fields or adjacent to small conjunctive water ponds.
2) Systems should use renewable/alternative energy sources.
3) There is a need for both stationary and portable pumping/treatment systems.
4) The system must test and if necessary treat water so that the water pumped back in meets state water quality standards.
5) Such a smart system would alert growers/farm managers when water treatment and reverse pumping should begin.

Who does this affect?
It affects all growers who are struggling with depleting ground water resources.