California Institute for Water Resources

Drought resources

In the midst of historic drought, California’s academic institutions serve as a tremendous resource.

Visit our drought pages for events, experts, and informational resources.

Follow us on Twitter

UC Water Institute:
RT @ucanr: Don't count on El Niño. Prepare for more #drought, says #UC water expert Doug Parker. http://t.co/FMMemrbIV5
Posted 1 day ago

UC Water Institute:
UC experts to give update on #drought impact forecasting study @PressClubDC event July 15 (webcast available) http://t.co/eyZ21FGJh1
Posted 1 day ago

Fulfilling our mission

“As California faces its worst drought in decades, water supply and quality for agricultural, urban, and environmental systems has become one of our biggest challenges. UC's California Institute for Water Resources is vital to integrating California’s research, extension, and education programs to help mitigate the current problem and develop practical long-term solutions.”

Secretary Karen Ross, California Department of Food and Agriculture
Secretary John Laird, California Natural Resources Agency

Projects that make a difference


Spatial analysis of irrigation efficiencies is critical to implementing water conservation strategies as climate changes over time.	Improving aquifer storage recovery operations can help to reduce nutrient loads and increase water supplies.

Recent studies have found widespread nitrate contamination in some of California’s groundwater systems.	Monitoring hydroclimate extremes helps decision-makers reduce famine in developing countries.