For centuries, the seasonal waters of the San Diego River supported native Kumeyaay communities. People continued to settle near the river and the region’s population swelled with new arrivals. Local rivers and aquifers supplied all of their water until the early 1940s.
In San Diego, we import 80–90% of our water from the Colorado River and northern California. An estimated 19% of California’s energy use relates to water collection, transportation, and treatment.
Using water = using energy = CO 2 emissions = climate change
Water: A California Story features photos, maps, video, and hands-on activities, natural history specimens, live animals, and more. Tips and resources for water conservation on a local and regional level are also shared.