California Water Plan 2013: Central Coast Hydrologic Region Report

The Central Coast Hydrologic Region is the most groundwater-dependent hydrologic region in California, with approximately 80 percent of agricultural, municipal, and domestic water demands met by the extraction of groundwater. Imported surface water allocations from the State Water Project (SWP) and the Central Valley Project total up to 106,000 acre-feet (af) per year; however, actual volumes of imported water received vary annually.

The economy of the Central Coast relies heavily on agriculture and viticulture, which thrives in the temperate climate, rich soils, and moderate rainfall. Major water-related challenges for the region include groundwater and surface water quality degradation, groundwater basin overdraft, flood risk, seawater intrusion, and aging infrastructure. Urban, environmental, and disadvantaged community (DAC) interests in the Central Coast are currently well-represented in the region’s integrated regional water management efforts, which include new and updated integrated regional water management (IRWM) plans and numerous implementation projects.