DWR's Basin Characterization Program

Description

DWR has a long history of studying and characterizing California’s groundwater aquifers as a part of [California’s Groundwater (Bulletin 118)](https://water.ca.gov/Programs/Groundwater-Management/Bulletin-118 "California’s Groundwater (Bulletin 118)"). [California's Groundwater Basin Characterization Program](https://water.ca.gov/Programs/Groundwater-Management/Bulletin-118/Basin-Characterization "California's Groundwater Basin Characterization Program") provides the latest data and information about California’s groundwater basins to help local communities better understand their aquifer systems and support local and statewide groundwater management. Under the Basin Characterization Program, new and existing data (AEM, lithology logs, geophysical logs, etc.) are integrated to create continuous maps and three-dimensional models. To support this effort, new data analysis tools have been developed to create texture models, hydrostratigraphic models, and aquifer flow parameters. Data collection efforts have been expanded to include advanced geologic, hydrogeologic, and geophysical data collection and data digitization and quality control efforts will continue. To continue to support data access and data equity, the Basin Characterization Program has developed new online, GIS-based, visualization tools to serve as a central hub for accessing and exploring groundwater related data in California. Additional information can be found on the [Basin Characterization Program webpage](https://water.ca.gov/Programs/Groundwater-Management/Bulletin-118/Basin-Characterization "Basin Characterization Program webpage"). #DWR's Evaluation of Groundwater Resources ## Maps and Models DWR is undertaking local, regional, and statewide investigations to evaluate California's groundwater resources and develop state-stewarded maps and models. New and existing data have been combined and integrated using the analysis tools described below to develop maps and models that describe grain size, the hydrostratigraphic properties, and hydrogeologic conceptual properties of California’s aquifers. These maps and models help groundwater managers understand how groundwater is stored and moves within the aquifer. The models will be state-stewarded, meaning that they will be regularly updated, as new data becomes available, to ensure that up-to-date information is used for groundwater management activities. The first iterations of the following maps and models will be published as they are developed: + Texture Models + Hydrostratigraphic Models + Aquifer Recharge Potential Maps + Extent of Important Aquifer Units + Depth to Basement + Depth to Freshwater Click on the link below for each local, regional, or statewide investigation to find the following datasets. ##Local Investigations + [Madera & North Kings](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/8400c923-e18d-4ac5-958b-82f88e5af4f8 "Madera & North Kings"): AEM data collection, lithology log digitization, texture model development, aquifer recharge potential mapping analysis. + [Pajaro](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/043aaa87-5c5d-433e-9afe-80f6966ca3ad "Pajaro"): AEM and tTEM data collection + [Western San Joaquin Valley](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/c2633b9c-cd34-445b-ac2d-4a5b49eb881d "Western San Joaquin Valley"): AEM data collection, lithology and geophysical log data digitization, texture model development. + [Prospect Island](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/b96e8832-d8af-416e-abcd-9240f7fb33d4 "Prospect Island"): AEM data collection, FloaTEM data collection test. ##Regional Investigations + [Sacramento Valley](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/fed9f9dd-fd0d-4ef6-a21b-a8835404b3c6 "Sacramento Valley"): AEM data collection, texture model development, aquifer recharge potential mapping analysis. + Four County Area of San Joaquin Valley (Madera, Fresno, Kings, and Tulare) + San Joaquin Valley ##Statewide Investigations + [Statewide AEM Surveys](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/aem "Statewide AEM Surveys"): AEM data collection, geophysical and lithology log data digitization. # Data Collection & Compilation As a part of the Basin Characterization Program, advanced geologic, hydrogeologic, and geophysical data will be collected to improve our understanding of groundwater basins. Data collected under Basin Characterization are collected at a local, regional, or statewide scale depending on the scope of the study. Advanced data collection methods include: + Airborne electromagnetics (AEM) + All-terrain vehicle towed electromagnetics (tTEM) + Watercraft towed electromagnetics (FloaTEM) + Geophysical borehole logging ## Digitized Existing Lithology and Geophysical Logs Lithology and geophysical logging data have been digitized to support the Statewide AEM Survey Project and will continue to be digitized to support Basin Characterization efforts. All digitized lithology logs with Well Completion Report IDs will be imported back into the OSWCR database. Digitized lithology and geophysical logging can be found under the following resource: + [Digitized Lithology and Geophysical Logs](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/942aa75e-8727-4e12-84a6-280b5896f3b0 "Digitized Lithology and Geophysical Logs"). #Analysis Tools and Process Documents To develop the state-stewarded maps and models outlined above, new tools and process documents have been created to integrate and analyze a wide range of data, including geologic, geophysical, and hydrogeologic information. By combining and assessing various datasets, these tools help create a more complete picture of California's groundwater basins. All tools, along with guidance documents, are made publicly available for local groundwater managers to use to support development of maps and models at a local scale. All tools and guidance will be updated as revisions to tools and process documents are made. ##Data Analysis Tools + [Data2Texture](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/91b11192-9867-4020-82f0-df795d6eb7b4 "Data2Texture"): Data2Texture is an advanced spatial data interpolation tool for estimating the distribution of sediment textures from airborne electromagnetic data and lithology logs to create a 3D texture model + [Data2HSM - Smart Interpretation](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/a00585a3-d330-41b1-aeba-f450526596b9 "Data2HSM - Smart Interpretation"): Data2HSM via Smart Interpretation (SI) is a semi-automatic Python tool for delineating continuous hydrogeologic surfaces from airborne electromagnetic data products. + [Data2HSM - Gaussian Mixture Model](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/14a82d4c-c6f7-4d13-8189-91cada79f867 "Data2HSM - Gaussian Mixture Model"): The Data2HSM via Gaussian Mixture Model tool ingests the AEM data and groups the data into a user-specified number of clusters that are interpreted as stratigraphic units in the hydrostratigraphic model (HSM) + [Data2HSM - Geological Pseudolabel Deep Neural Network](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/ab9d4d5b-0c7a-4374-a3bc-1ad6f1c25621 "Data2HSM - Geological Pseudolabel Deep Neural Network"): The GeoPDNN (Geological Pseudolabel Deep Neural Network) is a semi-supervised machine learning tool that integrates lithologic well logs and AEM data into plausible stratigraphic surfaces. + [Texture2Par V2](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/ef60d3ee-91d3-40cc-9455-5b9775993ee5 "Texture2Par V2"): Texture2Par V2 is a groundwater model pre-processor and parameterization utility developed to work with the IWFM and MODFLOW families of hydrologic simulation code. ##Process Documents + [Aquifer Recharge Potential Mapping](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/7d33d618-38bc-4511-834c-6e791695f8e2 "Aquifer Recharge Potential Mapping"): The Aquifer Recharge Potential (ARP) Mapping Process Document provides a framework for identifying locations that have relatively higher potential for managed aquifer recharge. #Data Visualization Data access equity is a priority for the Basin Characterization Program. To ensure data access equity, the Basin Characterization Program has developed applications and tools to allow data to be visualized without needing access to expensive data visualization software. This list below provides links and descriptions for the Basin Characterization's suite of data viewers. [SGMA Data Viewer: Basin Characterization tab](https://sgma.water.ca.gov/webgis/?appid=SGMADataViewer#basincharacter "SGMA Data Viewer: Basin Characterization tab"): Provides maps, depth slices, and profiles of Basin Characterization maps, models, and datasets, including the following: + Aquifer Recharge Potential Maps + Subsurface Texture Model Depth Slices + Statewide AEM Survey Texture Depth Slices + Lithology Log Location Maps + Geophysical Logs Location Maps + Statewide AEM Survey Profile Images [3D AEM Data Viewer](https://dwr.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/3dviewer/index.html?appid=f781b14f42ab45e5b72f32cf07af899c "3D AEM Data Viewer"): Displays the Statewide AEM Survey electrical resistivity and coarse fraction data, along with lithology logs, in a three-dimensional space. [California's Groundwater Subsurface Viewer](https://sgma.water.ca.gov/subsurfaceviewer "California's Groundwater Subsurface Viewer"): Provides a map view and profile view of the Statewide AEM Survey electrical resistivity and coarse fraction data, along with lithology logs. The map view dynamically shows the exact location of AEM data displayed. #Basin Characterization Exchange The Basin Characterization Exchange (BCX) is a meeting series and network space for the Basin Characterization community to exchange ideas, share lessons learned, define needed guidance, and highlight research topics. The BCX is open to federal, state, and local agencies, consultants, NGOs, academia, and interested parties who participate in Basin Characterization efforts. The BCX also plays a pivotal role in advancing the Basin Characterization Program’s activities and goals. BCX meetings will include regular updates from the Basin Characterization Program and participants can provide feedback and recommendations. Participants will also be provided with early opportunities to test data analysis tools and submit comments on draft process and guidance documents. BCX meetings are (generally) held the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 12:30 - 1:30 pm (PST). [Join the BCX listserv](https://forms.office.com/g/VgNif0iEuE "Join the BCX listserv") to become a BCX member and receive meeting registration emails. Check the [BCX Hub](https://cadwr.box.com/v/BasinCharacterizationExchange "BCX Hub") for the upcoming schedule and past meeting materials.

Resources

Name Format Description Link
57 Digitized lithology and geophysical logging data for the Madera & North Kings Local Investigation. File updated 11/18/2024. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/1d08d5ff-427d-4d77-9d39-89caca3c34fe/download/local_investigation_maderankings_digitzeddata_20241118.zip
33 Data2Texture is an advanced spatial data interpolation and simulation tool for estimating the distribution of sediment textures. Preliminary description of the Data2Texture tool. Tool expected to be publicly available in Early 2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/91b11192-9867-4020-82f0-df795d6eb7b4/download/bc_analysistools_data2texture_20241003.pdf
33 The Data2HSM via Gaussian Mixture Model tool ingests the AEM data and groups the data into a user-specified number of clusters that are interpreted as stratigraphic units in the hydrostratigraphic model (HSM). File contains a preliminary description of the Data2HSM via Gaussian Mixture Model tool. Tool expected to be publicly available in Early/Mid 2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/14a82d4c-c6f7-4d13-8189-91cada79f867/download/bc_analysistools_data2hsm_gmm_20241003.pdf
33 The GeoPDNN (Geological Pseudolabel Deep Neural Network) is a semi-supervised machine learning tool that integrates point-based datasets - such as formation picks from lithologic well logs or individual AEM soundings- into plausible stratigraphic surfaces for a preliminary hydrostratigraphic model. File contains a preliminary description of the Data2HSM via GeoPDNN tool. Tool expected to be publicly available in Mid-late 2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/ab9d4d5b-0c7a-4374-a3bc-1ad6f1c25621/download/bc_analysistools_data2hsm_geopdnn_20241003.pdf
33 Texture2Par Version 2 is a groundwater model pre-processor and parameterization utility developed to work with the IWFM and MODFLOW families of hydrologic simulation codes. File contains a preliminary description of the Texture2Par Version 2.0 tool. Tool expected to be publicly available in Early 2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/ef60d3ee-91d3-40cc-9455-5b9775993ee5/download/bc_analysistools_texture2parv2_20241003.pdf
33 Data Report (draft) for the tTEM data collected for the Pajaro Local Investigation. The Draft Data Report contains information about data collection and the process to invert for the data for electrical resistivity values vs depth. Data Report to be updated with interpretations of electrical resistivity to texture (as percent coarse-grained material). File updated on 12/4/2024. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/5e3dd3d1-a295-433c-b67b-6f1f8a88dab2/download/ttem_report_final.pdf
57 Data Report (Draft) Appendices for the tTEM data collected for the Pajaro Local Investigation. File updated on 12/4/2024. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/4b6e3e2b-9b59-4e3a-a000-0d65dd9be2a6/download/li_pajaro_ttem_report_appendices_20241204.zip
57 Digitized lithology and geophysical logging data for the Western San Joaquin Valley Local Investigation. File updated 5/2/2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/8757704f-6f98-484d-bd4c-eb2fa08ac080/download/westernsjv_digitizedwells_20250502.zip
57 Preliminary tTEM data collected in the Pajaro area. Dataset includes electrical resistivity data and interpretations for texture. File updated on 3/20/2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/65115263-5b72-41b8-b2c4-f471b10e8c4e/download/pajaro_ttem_20250320.zip
0 ## Datasets and Reports All AEM data and reports are available on the CNRA Open Data Portal page: https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/aem ## AEM Flight Line Map A map displaying the location of AEM data collection can be found here: https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/aem/resource/8a020073-20e4-4feb-9271-fe8f76c99a85 ## AEM Data Viewers DWR's AEM 3D and Profile Viewers can be accessed here: https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/aem/resource/29c4478d-fc34-44ab-a373-7d484afa38e8 https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/aem
33 Smart Interpretation (SI) is a semi-automatic Python tool for delineating continuous hydrogeologic surfaces from airborne electromagnetic data products, including inverse resistivity and coarse-fraction models. File contains a preliminary description of the Data2HSM via Smart Interpretation tool. Tool expected to be publicly available in Early 2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/a00585a3-d330-41b1-aeba-f450526596b9/download/bc_analysistools_data2hsm_si_20241003.pdf
33 Data Report Addendum (draft) for the tTEM data collected for the Pajaro Local Investigation. The Data Report Addendum includes the process and interpretations of electrical resistivity for texture (as percent coarse-grained material). See [Pajaro - tTEM Data Report](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/5e3dd3d1-a295-433c-b67b-6f1f8a88dab2 "Pajaro - tTEM Data Report ") for tTEM survey area information and electrical resistivity profiles. File updated 3/20/2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/a1430fe6-3962-4c8f-986b-30694955146a/download/pajarottem_report_addendum.pdf
57 Texture Model Version 2025.1 for the Sacramento Valley Investigation. Texture Model Version 2025.1 was developed using Data2Texture and includes the integration of digitized lithology logs from SVSim. Data2Texture model files available upon request. File updated on 6/11/2025 https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/087e6e7c-56cd-443f-a7e4-868428e94d1f/download/sacvalley_texturemodel_v2025.1.zip
57 Texture model Version 2024.3 for the Madera & North Kings Local Investigation. Model was developed using [Data2Texture](Data2Texture, Data2HSM, and Texture2Par V.2 "Data2Texture") and includes the integration of texture derived from available AEM data and digitized lithology logs. File updated on 12/19/2024 *** Superseded Data Releases:: * Texture Model Version 2024.2 Email Basin.Characterization@water.ca.gov to request a superseded dataset. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/ddd6d0d5-68e7-45c1-b9b1-d88de3cf1276/download/maderanorthkings_texture_2024.3.zip
33 ###Description The Aquifer Recharge Potential (ARP) Process Document describes the datasets and analyses used to create ARP maps. ARP maps identify locations that have relatively higher potential for managed aquifer recharge (MAR) and are intended to be used as a screening tool. ###Version 2025.1 ###Publication Date 3/19/2025 ###Feedback The Aquifer Recharge Potential Mapping Process Document (Draft - v2025.1) is under-development. Please submit feedback or comments to Basin.Characterization@water.ca.gov. ###Process Document and Use Disclaimer DWR makes no warranties, representations, or guarantees, either expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or correctness of the analytical process provided in this Process Document or related nor accepts or assumes any liability arising from the use of the Process Document. Neither the Department nor any of the data sources, datasets, or maps shall be responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the use or results obtained from using this information. A Groundwater Sustainability Agency is not required to use this Process Document, and its use does not guarantee the adequacy of a Groundwater Sustainability Plan that relies on such analytical processes. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/7d33d618-38bc-4511-834c-6e791695f8e2/download/aquifer-recharge-potential-process-document-v2025.1b.pdf
0 Aquifer Recharge Potential (ARP) map V.2024.3 for the Madera & North Kings Local Investigation. ARP maps were developed using the [Local Investigation: Madera & North Kings - Texture model (Version 2024.2)](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/ddd6d0d5-68e7-45c1-b9b1-d88de3cf1276, "Local Investigation: Madera & North Kings - Texture model (Version 2024.2)"). Additional information on the ARP mapping process can be found on the [Aquifer Recharge Potential Mapping Process Document (Draft - v2025.1)](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/7d33d618-38bc-4511-834c-6e791695f8e2, "Aquifer Recharge Potential Mapping Process Document (Draft - v2025.1)") File updated on 12/19/2024. *** Superseded Data Releases: * Aquifer Recharge Potential Maps (Version 2024.2) Email Basin.Characterization@water.ca.gov to request a superseded dataset. *** https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/e5c9e782-bb75-495b-bb22-b659976937ae/download/maderankings_arp_2024.3.zip
57 Aquifer Recharge Potential (ARP) map V.2025.3 for the Sacramento Valley Regional Investigation. ARP maps were developed using the [Sacramento Valley - Texture Model (Version 2025.1)](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/087e6e7c-56cd-443f-a7e4-868428e94d1f, "Sacramento Valley - Texture Model (Version 2025.1)") Additional information on the ARP mapping process can be found on the [Aquifer Recharge Potential Mapping Process Document (Draft - v2025.1)](https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/dwr-basin-characterization/resource/7d33d618-38bc-4511-834c-6e791695f8e2, "Aquifer Recharge Potential Mapping Process Document (Draft - v2025.1)") File updated on 8/14/2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/6eea2799-5b67-4cfb-925b-c30c2098429e/download/sacvalley_arp_2025.1.zip
33 Technical Memo (draft) for the FloaTEM test data collection effort performed at Prospect Island. The Technical Memo contains information about data collection and the process to invert for the data for electrical resistivity values vs depth, a preliminary interpretation of the data, and a comparison to existing tTEM and AEM data. File updated on 8/14/2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/9a415521-f49a-44af-9ec3-1250bf0a4dab/download/prospect_island_floatem_techmemo_final.pdf
57 Appendices for Prospect Island - FloaTEM Test Technical Memo (Draft). File updated on 8/14/2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/7f54ef5a-a4cd-4fb8-93c1-16e8d031bccf/download/prospectisland_floatem_test_appendices.zip
57 Preliminary FloaTEM test data collected as a part of the Prospect Island Local Investigation. Dataset includes electrical resistivity data. File updated on 8/14/2025. https://data.cnra.ca.gov/dataset/ee3ccd25-b626-481a-84fd-e2ca89e1f3bd/resource/b9c3959d-8c37-4f1c-ac87-647ae803f3be/download/prospectisland_floatem_data.zip

Tags

  • sgma
  • geophysics
  • bulletin-118
  • geophysical-logs
  • hydrostratigraphic-model
  • aquifers
  • lithology-logs
  • basin-characterization
  • texture-model
  • aem
  • airborne-electromagnetic
  • california-department-of-water-resources

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