How the Kaweah MLRP is Transforming Farmland and Water Use in the Central Valley
A Sustainable Solution for Agriculture, Water, and Community Well-Being
For generations, agriculture has shaped the economy and identity of California’s Central Valley. But with persistent drought and groundwater shortages, the way we use land must evolve to meet new challenges. The Kaweah Multibenefit Land Repurposing Program (MLRP) is leading the way, helping landowners and communities transition irrigated farmland into sustainable, lower-water alternatives that support both the environment and local economies.
What is the Kaweah Multibenefit Land Repurposing Program?
The MLRP is a state-funded initiative designed to help landowners, farmers, and communities adjust to water shortages by repurposing agricultural land into more sustainable and productive uses. With $10 million in funding from the California Department of Conservation, the Kaweah Delta Water Conservation District and its partners are leading this effort to reduce reliance on groundwater while preserving the region’s agricultural heritage.
Through multibenefit land repurposing, landowners can explore alternatives such as:
Groundwater recharge basins to replenish local water supplies
Native habitat restoration to support biodiversity and pollinators
Dryland farming and grazing lands for continued agricultural production
Low-impact solar energy projects that provide economic returns
Community parks and recreational areas to enhance local quality of life
By participating in MLRP, landowners play an essential role in shaping the future of the Kaweah Subbasin while securing potential financial incentives for sustainable land use.
Why Does Land Repurposing Matter?
The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) requires critically overdrafted groundwater basins, such as the Kaweah Subbasin, to transition to sustainable water use by 2040. Experts estimate that 500,000 to 1,000,000 acres of farmland in the San Joaquin Valley may need to be fallowed, retired, or repurposed to help restore water balance.
Without thoughtful land repurposing, fallowed fields could contribute to dust pollution, invasive species, and economic instability for local communities. The MLRP offers a proactive solution, allowing landowners to transition their land in ways that benefit their operations, the environment, and surrounding communities.
How Landowners Can Get Involved
The Kaweah MLRP is a collaborative effort, and landowners are encouraged to play an active role in shaping the program. Whether you’re interested in groundwater recharge, native habitat restoration, or alternative agricultural models, there are opportunities to explore innovative land-use strategies that align with your needs.
Learn More About the Future of Land Use in the Kaweah Subbasin
The choices made today will shape the future of agriculture and water management in the Central Valley. Through strategic, multibenefit land repurposing, we can preserve local farming traditions, protect natural resources, and build more resilient communities.
Click here or the button below to learn more about the Kaweah MLRP and how you can get involved.
