Drought Information and Resources

Severe drought, spurred by climate change, has led the state to take action to protect California’s water supply for drinking, farming, fishing, tribal traditions, and other uses, as well as for the health of the ecosystems that rely on rivers and streams.  The state is also working to preserve groundwater supplies and prepare for continued dry conditions.

Governor Gavin Newsom in 2021 has declared a state of emergency on more than 40 counties as a result of the drought and urges all Californians to voluntarily reduce their water use by 15 percent from 2020 levels.  CalEPA’s State Water Board has had to order some water right holders to stop drawing water from some watersheds. 

CalEPA worked with the California Natural Resources Agency and California Department of Food and Agriculture in developing the 2020 Water Resilience Portfolio.