However, we cannot use them year-round. Recharge operations usually begin in March and run until about October. The Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District must keep their basins available for storm water during the rainy season to minimize the chances of local flooding. For further information, please see the Department of Public Utilities pages. We are not aware of other California cities using the same type of program as the City of Fresno, but Phoenix, Arizona, does operate a similar recharge program.
Many cities currently use surface water instead of wells for drinking water.
Some cities are surrounded by canals and water is recharged in that way. Residents in those areas are sometimes charged on their tax bill for recharge. For further information, please consult the Department of Public Utility pages. All of the City of Fresno's water is pumped from the underground aquifer. The source of the water in the aquifer is rainfall, subsurface flows, and water replaced by the City through its artificial recharge program.