Since irrigation pumping began in the Hollister Valley in 1878, water levels have declined as much as 180 feet. Ground-water pumping has increased progressively since the mid-1940's and is expected to continue to do so. To compensate, ground-water recharge, surface deliveries have been implemented by the San Benito County Water District, a water conservation and flood control district, using imported water from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's Central Valley Project. The mission of the District is to preserve the economic and environmental wealth and well-being of San Benito County through the control, management and conservation of waters and the provision of water services in a practical, cost-effective and responsible manner.