Water Year 2027 groundwater allocations remain unchanged at 9 inches tiered and 10 inches native yield, though staff flagged drier conditions and potential supply stress in 2030–2033. A $550K groundwater model update scope/budget was approved (MKGSA share stated as ~$183K under an equal cost-share arrangement) targeted for spring next year to produce outputs ahead of WY2028 allocations. Well registration remains behind at 358 of ~1,300 wells; staff expects a revised strategy within 30 days.
Well registration is now mandatory, with staff available to assist growers on-site during an outreach push expected this fall. The board approved a new Dedicated Recharge Basin Policy with embankment and verification requirements; staff said earlier applicants do not need to reapply and remain under review. Predictive modeling to inform a steady-state allocation for water year 2028 was cited as a top priority.
A mandatory well registration policy was approved, tying good standing to allocation eligibility and management tool access. Bulletin 118 modeling found groundwater levels below critical head at 4 of 6 modeled sites in the Kaweah Sub-basin; the first DWR subsidence meeting is targeted for July (date TBD). Kaweah–Tule groundwater banking work continues with Southern California partners, with a Phase 1 report expected June/July 2026.
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.
Four GSAs are in early feasibility discussions with SWP/CVP contractors (Southern California agencies being a key example) on a groundwater banking concept to bring new wet-year supplies into the region, with a negotiated leave-behind volume benefiting local growers and SGMA compliance. No decisions were made; multiple stakeholder input opportunities ahead. Return water to partners would primarily use west-side surface water; groundwater recovery is a backstop.
