7 Powerful Photos Before And After The California Drought

    A lot's changed in the last three years. And it ain't pretty.

    According to the National Drought Mitigation Center, more than 81% of California is in an "extreme drought."

    The state has been battling a drought that has become increasingly severe and costly over the past few years. California is now "short more than one year's worth of reservoir water," according to an NDMC report and residents can be fined up to $500 for excessively watering their lawns.

    All images July 20, 2011, vs. Aug. 19, 2014, unless otherwise specified.

    1. Lake Oroville

    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images

    2. Folsom Dam

    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images

    3. Lake Oroville

    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images

    4. Lake Oroville

    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images

    5. Bidwell Marina at Lake Oroville

    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images

    6. Bidwell Marina at Lake Oroville

    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images

    7. Satellite View of California

    NASA Earth Observatory

    Jan. 18, 2013 vs. Jan. 18, 2014

    NASA Earth Observatory

    Jan. 18, 2013 vs. Jan. 18, 2014

    NASA Earth Observatory

    Jan. 18, 2013 vs. Jan. 18, 2014