Effect of Irrigation on Groundwater Quality in California

Deep percolation of irrigation return flow is a major source of recharge beneath most irrigated areas in California. Tile drainage, soils, water in the vadose zone, and shallow groundwater have been studied. Nitrate, salinity, and several pesticides have received the most attention. Numerous parts of the San Joaquin Valley have been investigated, as well as parts of the Sacramento Valley, Imperial Valley, Los Angeles Basin, and several other valleys. The results of the studies indicate that irrigation return flow usually exerts a substantial impact on groundwater quality. High nitrate contents in groundwater beneath irrigated areas are often a result of irrigation. In addition, extensive pollution of shallow groundwater in parts of the San Joaquin Valley have been caused by use of the pesticide DBCP.