Investigations on the west side of the San Joaquin Valley indicate that wells carefully located at sites of good aquifer characteristics can be pumped effectively to control water tables over a limited area. Previous experience by local irrigation districts had led to the belief that drainage by pumped wells was unreliable in this area of fine-textured alluvial soils of sedimentary origin. However, this type of drainage can become physically feasible where there are no perched or confined water tables. Application of this method depends on economic considerations, such as the possibility of reusing the water.

J. Yoshino, Laboratory Technician, Stanislaus County, assisted with field work.