California LandFlex Saves Water and Supports Farms

LandFlex Brings Farms into Early SGMA Compliance and Protects Wells

The Department of Water Resources (DWR) in California is celebrating the success of its LandFlex Pilot Program, which was launched in 2022 to fight drought impacts and groundwater overuse.

Through collaboration with six groundwater sustainability agencies (GSAs), LandFlex distributed $23.3 million to 52 farms across the Central Valley. The enrolled 4,474 acres of land helped prevent over-pumping and improved water conditions in key agricultural zones.

The program saved more than 100,000 acre-feet of groundwater and protected 16,500 drinking water wells. It also helped farms meet the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) requirements 15 years ahead of the 2040 target.

LandFlex showed strong results even during weather extremes in 2023. Redirected floodwaters helped recharge aquifers, while lands near the California Aqueduct were protected from land subsidence.

Key organizations including Western United Dairies, Almond Alliance, and Self-Help Enterprises played a role in educating and supporting farmers.

“The strength of the LandFlex program lies not only in its ability to conserve water, but also in its flexibility as a climate-resilient solution for both groundwater sustainability agencies and farmers,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth.

These efforts show that proactive, community-driven programs can deliver real results. Farmers were supported to keep working their land while protecting essential water resources for future generations.

“LandFlex represents a new chapter in sustainable farming,” said Blake Vann, Chairman of Almond Alliance.

To learn more, visit water.ca.gov/landflex.