Groundwater
Groundwater Management and Enhancement
Groundwater pumped from District wells makes up 10-15% of our water supply portfolio (approximately 600 AFY), and is a local and reliable source of supply. MWD's monthly groundwater production varies, averaging about 50 AF per month. Groundwater supplies remain depleted from the extreme drought which began in 2011. As of 2019, hydrogeologists forecast that it will take several consecutive years of above average rainfall for the groundwater basin to recover.
Proper management of this essential resource is necessary and required in accordance with the State's Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA).
Ensuring Sustainability.
To ensure long-term sustainability of limited groundwater supplies, Montecito Water District maintains an active groundwater enhancement program that coordinates use of the District's various surface supplies (Cachuma, Jameson Lake, Imported water, etc.) and groundwater conjunctively (together).