A new study reveals that Nevada groundwater is declining as a result of intensifying drought and rising demand. This decline is jeopardizing groundwater-dependent ecosystems and long-term reliability in the state. Roughly half of Nevada's counties rely on groundwater for over 80% of their water supply and about 20% of Nevada’s groundwater basins currently suffer from over-pumping.
This overuse creates a major issue for Nevada’s unique groundwater-dependent ecosystems such as springs, wetlands, and riparian habitats. These natural oases sustain rare and endemic plants and wildlife that are at risk from decreasing groundwater levels.
Researchers created a statewide database of groundwater-dependent ecosystems using public data. Their map revealed that habitats often sit in basins with over-allocated water rights and approximately 20% of these groundwater-dependent habitats face moderate to high risk from pumping stress. The report shows that over 40% of springs and 32% of groundwater-dependent rivers and streams are already at high risk of reduced flows resulting from groundwater depletion.
The study also documents several strategies (e.g., better well monitoring, smarter water management, and stronger policies) to limit overuse and offers a roadmap for neighboring Mountain West states.
