Using multi-spectral satellite imagery, digital terrain models, and geotechnical datasets, Divining LA is a digital tool for urban design in water stressed environments, applied to Los Angeles, CA, USA. It models precipitation, soil quality, land use, and groundwater contamination in a dynamic, publicly-accessible instrument for architects, landscape designers, and planners. It aims to maximize low-carbon localized water supply, reduce dependence on water imports, and to guide water-smart planning. Providing information on zoning and building policy, the information-based script supports site assessment for public and private investment. 

Led by the Arid Lands Institute, the tool is produced in collaboration with agencies and universities across the city, with applications worldwide.

Divining LA (DLA) provides planners and designers with high-resolution geospatial data for the capture, retention, infiltration, distribution and/or treatment of stormwater. DLA uses satellite imagery, terrain modelling, and geotechnical data to reduce dependence on carbon-intensive water imports and diminished snowpack; build regional resilience in the face of climate change; enhance open space and urban environments; promote new construction technologies; and to celebrate the diverse character of neighborhoods across Los Angeles.

Progress: As a computational engine and dissemination tool, DLA provides real-time feedback on site-specific design choices. Stakeholders including the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Los Angeles, university design programs and NGOs will test the tool. DLA will produce a design portfolio of distributed infrastructures, absorptive landscapes, and hydrologically-precise building systems; policy recommendations; and education reforms.

People: DLA is developed in collaboration with the City of LA Bureau of Engineering, LA County Public Works, and the US Bureau of Reclamation as well as private sector advisors such as Arup and ESRI. Water scarcity affects 1.2 billion people worldwide. DLA is designed as a prototype that can be adapted to cities around the world.

Planet: 431 million cubic meters of stormwater runs off LA each year, enough to supply 2.5 million people per year, at 450 liters per person per day. Offsetting 431 million cubic meters of imported water with local water would conserve 700 gigawatt hours per year, saving approximately 475,000 metric tons CO2e. It costs LA USD 311 million per year to import 431 million cubic meters of water. In theory, a billion-dollar investment in localized water capture could be recouped in just over 3 years.

Prosperity: DLA leverages diverse funding sources: grants, university support, and partner expertise. Three phases include: prototyping and initial development (completed); integrated regional development and testing (current); and fee-based add-on module development (future).

Place: DLA encompasses over 1200 km2 at a resolution of 30 m2. DLA promotes site-specific design solutions responsive to cultural and biophysical conditions.