Nearly all of the water that is used in the Coachella Valley comes from a groundwater basin, or aquifer, underneath the ground’s surface. This aquifer is estimated to have a capacity of about 39 million acre-feet of water. 

Our groundwater is of such high quality that it requires very little treatment. In accordance with state regulations, DWA chlorinates the water and then delivers the water to local residents and businesses. Minimal treatment is a great cost savings that is passed on to customers. 

DWA pumps water using 27 wells drilled to a depth between 1000’ and 1200’, with pumps placed up to 500’ deep. To foster sustainability of the basin, DWA also replenishes the aquifer with imported water. DWA has rights to water from the State Water Project. However, since there is no direct pipeline from the State Water Project to Palm Springs, the Agency exchanges water with Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. The water we use for replenishment comes from the Colorado River Aqueduct, which Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) and DWA use to fill recharge ponds located at Whitewater and Mission Creek.