Environmental Factors
Soil, climate, recharge suitability, and landscape conditions that affect measure suitability
Environmental conditions influence which measures will work on your land and how effective they will be.
Soil
Soil type affects water holding capacity, infiltration, and suitability for different measures. Sandy soils may be better for groundwater recharge. Clay soils may limit recharge but support dry farming in some climates. Soil salinity can constrain use of recycled water.
Climate
Rainfall and temperature determine feasibility of dry farming, extended fallow, and unirrigated land repurposing. Coastal areas with moderate rainfall may support dry-farmed winegrapes. Drier areas may require irrigation for most crops or favor low-water land uses.
Recharge Suitability
For groundwater recharge projects, soil permeability, depth to groundwater, and proximity to surface water are critical. Tools such as SAGBI (Soil Agricultural Groundwater Banking Index) help assess recharge suitability. See Groundwater Recharge and Resources & Technical Documents for more information.
Topography and Landscape
Slope affects stormwater runoff prevention (contour plowing, swales) and suitability for habitat restoration or recreation. Proximity to streams influences floodplain restoration and beaver repopulation. Landscape context may affect solar development and ecovoltaics.
Proximity to Water Bodies
Land near streams or wetlands may be suitable for habitat restoration, floodplain reconnection, or beaver support. Distance from recycled water sources affects feasibility of using municipal or winery wastewater for irrigation.