Catch up on the latest GSA board meeting recaps anytime—at home, on the road, or on your tractor.
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The board approved a ~$1.5M FY 2026-27 budget, cutting ~$650K from the draft by deferring most model-improvement studies. The board also approved its formal response to DWR's GSP review, stating nitrate and arsenic conditions will be reviewed annually in annual reports and mitigation evaluated if conditions change. Staff were directed to begin early-stage assessments (Steps 1–3) of two properties showing significant pumping increases outside the Central Management Area.
Committee voted to recommend mandatory well registration for ag/industrial wells (generally >2 AFY) and directed staff to clarify language (domestic/retired wells intended as optional; info to best ability). Oct. 31, 2026 was discussed as a target deadline; noncompliance discussion included zeroing Tier 1/Tier 2. Updated fallowed field and dedicated recharge basin policies were recommended to the board.
Snowpack is well below average with drought conditions returning, though local reservoirs remain near capacity. The Domestic Well Mitigation Program holds ~$2.7M in reserves; directors said summer data (July–Sept) is needed before any reassessment of the GSP fee. A new Summary of Rules booklet covering 2026–2040 allocations and program updates will be mailed to growers this month.
Cost-share debate on model calibration (options shown at ~$500K) continued; members discussed keeping the 1/7 cost share and/or consolidating smaller groups' seats. The Committee voted to support pursuing a WaterSMART grant (up to $400K; 50% match) if cost share is agreed. PRP reminders: metering due Jan 2026; aquifer-specific reporting required; 2026 lower-aquifer target: 1,805 AF.
Basin storage is ~95% (about 76,000 AF) after exceptional precipitation. A Ventura River Watershed adjudication trial is expected in late Aug/early Sept 2026 among three proposed physical solutions; the locally backed plan aims to avoid altering water rights, while the state proposal raised cost/regulatory concerns. The board approved the audited financial statements for FY ending 9/30/2025 and 9/30/2024 and discussed ~$698K net position held ahead of a ~$250K five-year GSP reporting cost.
