In addition, there is a need to restore depleted natural aquifers. The problem of water scarcity has been exacerbated in recent years by several multi-year drought cycles and the consequent over-pumping of water to meet growing water demand. Annual rainfall has decreased by 9% on average since 1993 and could decrease by a further 10-15% between 2015 and 2035, according to climate change models (Chapter 6). Increasing population and agricultural growth are placing additional pressures on Israel’s limited water resources, in terms of both quantity and quality.