The JPA Board tabled the model calibration authorization (estimated $525,000) to the April meeting after a split technical ad hoc discussion. SWRCB staff recommended returning the basin to DWR (Board action expected April 7). Staff reminded GSAs about PRP tracking/reporting and Mar–May seasonal high WL/WQ sampling; closed session was skipped.
The Committee approved expanding Pumping Reduction Plan Dashboard access so all GSAs can view basin-wide data across zones for better coordination. The Bureau of Reclamation will end its twice-yearly subsidence monitoring program, and the technical ad hoc committee will explore alternative monitoring options. A $407,482 budget was approved for Northern Delta-Mendota GSAs with an initial $203,741 cash call.
The Committee ratified a $1.6 million FY2026 budget but deferred consultant contract approvals until February to allow full review. Joint Powers Authority formation awaits one final GSA signature before a special meeting can establish the new entity. Staff highlighted data quality concerns in the Pumping Reduction Plan process and stressed the need for better QA/QC before data submission.
Groundwater management coalition hit a milestone with 21 of 23 agencies committing to join the new joint powers authority. With 2026 implementation deadlines approaching, all wells must be registered and metered as pumping reduction requirements begin, transitioning from planning to active management. Multiple wells exceeded water quality and groundwater level thresholds, triggering mandatory notifications to nearby domestic well users and requiring increased monitoring and remedial actions.
The committee reviewed draft budget plans for fiscal year 2026 and approved enhanced outreach activities for the domestic well mitigation program to demonstrate proactive community engagement to state regulators. Multiple groundwater monitoring exceedances were reported across several districts, requiring mitigation plans within 60 days under existing agreements. Staff will issue budget pricing requests by month's end with final approval expected in January for March implementation.
