Water

Perhaps the most critical environmental problem facing the state is the depletion of its aquifers. Simply put, the aquifers have been over-exploited; the sparse and random rainfall inherent in an arid climate cannot keep pace with the region’s water usage.  In addition, the depleted wells often result in saline intrusion, which occurs when the water level in those wells falls below sea level.[1]  Fully 60% of the state’s surface area has either limited or no possibility whatsoever of using surface or groundwater resources.  Only 35% of the state’s surface area has usable groundwater resources; however, the aquifers in those areas are in serious danger of depletion.  It is worth noting that the state has a mere 4% of its territory where water might be extracted.  In addition, what little water that does exist has not been actively investigated in terms of its quality. 

In addition, there is evidence that fecal and arsenic contamination is occurring in groundwater wells, mainly in small, rural communities in Baja California Sur.  Arsenic, when consumed over a period of 5-10 years can cause cancer and diabetes. During 2004, ”Engineers for a Better World” at the University of California-Berkeley conducted tests in 24 communities, finding that 34% were contaminated above the federal drinking water standards.[2]  This study was expanded to include 500 groundwater wells throughout the state in 2005; to date, 34 communities have arsenic-contaminated groundwater.  Floride and saline contamination are also significant in terms of negative human health impacts.[3]  Clearly, it is crucial that the water quality and water supply crisis be addressed.[4] 

Finally, there is statewide concern about the high level of wasted water in the densely-populated urban areas, as well as in the large hotel zones.  In the former, water needs exceed water supply by 20% or more in Comondú and Los Cabos.[5]  Aging infrastructure, poor distribution networks, and irresponsible water use are the main culprits behind wasted water.[6]  In the hotel zones, which are much newer, proliferation of golf courses and swimming pools in hotel developments (and those under construction) is a prerequisite, despite limited water supplies.  It is particularly noteworthy that in Los Cabos, water distribution tends to favor tourist resorts, while supply is not enough to meet the local population’s demand. According to the Municipality of Los Cabos, the city’s water deficit is close to 30% - the highest in the state.[7]   Accordingly, absent the construction of new desalinization facilities and/or the adoption of proactive water conservation, Los Cabos will be unable to sustain its current rates of urban growth.

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