The 2023 water year, which was marked by above average rainfall and a concerted effort to recharge reservoirs, led to the addition of at least 4.1 million acre-feet of water underground, according to data released by the California Department of Water Resources.
California experienced a historic water year in 2023, with abundant rainfall and snowpack replenishing our rivers, streams, and groundwater basins," remarked Dr. Maria Alvarez, director of the DWR.
Much of that recharge took place in the San Joaquin Valley, where aquifers have been heavily taxed by pumping for agriculture. Glen and Colusa counties north of Sacramento saw major groundwater gains, as did Ventura and Santa Clara counties.
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