The California Water Institute at Fresno State released a new report showcasing how applied research, education and strategic partnerships are supporting responses to California’s pressing water challenges.
Amid historic droughts, climate extremes and growing pressure on groundwater supplies, the report underscores how the institute’s work is helping communities as they plan for long-term resilience.
Its release comes as federal lawmakers introduce new water infrastructure legislation aimed at expanding storage capacity and improving project delivery across California, highlighting the need for research, data tools and collaborative planning to help local agencies prepare for future water conditions.
“Our work at the California Water Institute is rooted in a simple but urgent reality that California’s water challenges need solutions that are both scientific and immediately useful,” said Laura Ramos, director of the institute. “We’re working to bridge the gap between research and action so communities across the San Joaquin Valley have the tools, data and partnerships they need to build long-term water security.”
The report highlights several projects that illustrate the institute’s applied, community-focused research, including:
- Groundwater recharge feasibility studies that evaluate suitable recharge zones and help agencies expand local water supplies.
- Climate resilience research examining drought impacts, surface water variability and infrastructure vulnerabilities.
- Urban water planning tools supporting sustainable consolidation, infrastructure upgrades and long-term supply reliability.
- Water and agriculture integration studies assessing how cropping choices, soil conditions and recharge potential intersect.
- Education and workforce development programs that prepare students to solve complex water challenges through hands-on research and community engagement.
Through partnerships with local agencies, state and federal organizations, nonprofits and community groups, Ramos said the California Water Institute helps translate research into practical tools for agencies and communities. She said these projects reflect a shared goal of ensuring California communities have equitable access to safe, reliable water while safeguarding the state’s natural resources.
“Sustainable water management isn’t something any single agency or institution can achieve alone,” Ramos said. “Through our partnerships, we’re building a collaborative space where people can easily share knowledge, align resources and create solutions with the communities that will use them every day.”
Moving forward, Ramos said the California Water Institute would like to develop a research and innovation network to unite universities, agencies, nonprofits and industry partners to strengthen shared learning, support data-informed decision-making and coordinate investment in sustainable water management.
The full report is available online.
(Story by Julissa Zavala)
