Folsom Lake might be our primary water source, but diversifying our supply is essential for long-term resilience—and Roseville’s groundwater program is making impressive strides.
Last year, we introduced two new Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) wells in West Roseville. These wells add to the constellation of existing facilities, allowing us to capture and store water underground during wetter periods and providing a critical backup during droughts and dry summers.
In 2023 alone, our ASR wells stored 2,134 acre-feet of water—enough to supply over 6,400 households. That's a massive leap from the 96 acre-feet stored in 2022. Previously to those years, we’ve also replenished the groundwater basin using other available surface water resources.
“Our groundwater program is critical in diversifying Roseville’s water sources and ensuring long-term water supply reliability,” said Environmental Utilities Director Sean Bigley. “By capturing and storing water underground, we're better prepared for droughts, helping maintain healthy ecosystems and a resilient community.”
Using excess surface water from Folsom Reservoir to replenish our groundwater basin provides significant benefits:
- Captures excess water that might otherwise flow unused into the ocean
- Banks water in underground reservoirs—like a savings account—available whenever needed
- Supports flood management by creating additional winter flood capacity at Folsom Reservoir
While we haven't banked any groundwater yet in 2025, our system is ready and waiting for the next above-average rainy season. Roseville continues expanding its groundwater well network to strengthen this readiness and enhance water supply reliability, supported by an $8 million grant from the California Natural Resources Agency and Department of Water Resources.
Quick facts about Roseville’s groundwater program:
- Two wells under construction (Misty Wood and Campus Oaks)
- Two additional wells are planned
Access to 1.8 million acre-feet of potential underground storage (twice the capacity of Folsom Reservoir)
“Growing our groundwater program means we're ready when drought hits, making sure Roseville families can count on reliable, high-quality water now and into the future,” George Hanson, Water Utility Manager, added.
Investing in groundwater infrastructure helps protect Roseville’s water future, strengthens our region, and ensures reliable water when it counts. Alongside recycled water and expanding our surface water options, these efforts keep Roseville ready and resilient
Learn more and find out how you can support water sustainability at Roseville.ca.us/groundwater.