California Groundwater Basin Characterization Data

The State of California's Department of Water Resources provides geospatial and tabular data from its ongoing Basin Characterization Program. This collection integrates new and existing data like AEM surveys, lithology logs, and geophysical logs to create 3D models and maps of groundwater aquifers. It supports local and statewide groundwater management under California's Bulletin 118 framework.

Use Cases

• Create continuous 3D hydrostratigraphic models by integrating AEM data with lithology logs and geophysical logs.
• Develop texture models and aquifer flow parameters from digitized lithology and geophysical log data to assess groundwater storage.
• Analyze aquifer recharge potential mapping using integrated AEM and tTEM data collection from regional investigations.
• Use GIS-based visualization tools to explore and map groundwater-related data for specific basins like the Sacramento Valley or Western San Joaquin Valley.

Strengths

• Data collection integrates multiple advanced sources including AEM, lithology logs, and geophysical logs.
• Program supports local, regional, and statewide groundwater investigations across multiple California basins.
• Includes newly developed online, GIS-based visualization tools for data access and exploration.

Limitations

• Specific row counts, column structures, and dataset sizes are not provided in the input.
• Data is delivered in non-tabular formats like PDF, FILE GEODATABASE, and ZIP, requiring specialized GIS software for full analysis.
• The license is listed as 'notspecified', which may create uncertainty for commercial or redistribution use.

Provenance

Source

State of California Department of Water Resources (DWR).

Collection Method

Integration of new and existing data (AEM, lithology logs, geophysical logs) through the Basin Characterization Program, including digitization and quality control efforts.

Time Range

null

Freshness

Last updated March 2026, indicating active maintenance.

Geography

California, United States, with specific investigations in basins like Madera & North Kings, Pajaro, Western San Joaquin Valley, and Sacramento Valley.