The Board directed staff to use a single subsidence minimum threshold across the GSA, with the exact 2020 baseline value to be developed by staff and the Growers Committee and brought back for approval. Staff said the State Water Board wants the updated GSP to address new subsidence BMPs, which may extend the schedule. A $100 late registration fee was approved for wells over 2 acre feet not registered by April 30, 2026.
The Board approved a Groundwater Allocation Policy establishing sustainable yield at 0.86 AF/acre for B and C zones, with decreasing transitional pumping to 2040. State reporting has been reinstated, with reports due May 1, 2026 and a $300 per‑well fee; additional per‑acre‑foot charges are expected. A revised domestic well mitigation program is expected to be presented in February.
The board discussed funding shortfalls and possible new fees to support well mitigation, noting only a $9.80 Tier 1 fee is currently in place. Empire West Irrigation District rejected a proposed amendment to add board representation for areas comprising about 70% of the GSA, prompting concerns about long‑term governance. The State Water Board has declined to meet with the GSA due to ongoing litigation concerns
The GSA is working on an expedited timeline to submit a revised GSP and apply for “good actor” status to seek exclusion from State Water Board fees. Landowner pumping reports are due May 1, 2026, and the board discussed targeting a GSP submission as soon as January–February to improve their position on fees. A significant dispute emerging over methodologies to determine sustainable yield. Directors questioned having the same consultant work for both agencies creates an appearance of conflict.
The Board approved a draft groundwater allocation policy for public comment, establishing sustainable yield allocations of 0.66 acre-feet per acre with transitional periods and trading mechanisms. Staff presented preliminary implementation costs of approximately $28 per acre-foot annually, totaling $1.82 million, with the largest expense being $960,000 for domestic well mitigation. The agency continues coordinating closely with neighboring groundwater authorities on outreach and policy...
