A 42-inch uncapped allocation was approved for the 2026 irrigation season, qualifying it as a Groundwater Replenishment Program year. The season opens March 11 with a tentative close of October 23, subject to review. Snowpack sits at 54% of the April 1 average, with possible early tapering of inflows; a dry scenario could significantly draw down reservoir levels by season's end.
The Board received an update on a $7.1M visitor center and trading post project slated for about 15 months of construction, with work expected to begin around March 2026. Despite public opposition from houseboat owners, amendments to the recreation area concession lease were approved, shifting more inspection duties to the concessionaire and increasing fees. A resolution urging equitable groundwater cost allocation passed unanimously.
An independent investigation into a director's water use on land straddling district boundaries proved inconclusive, with a motion for further attorney-led fact-finding failing 2-2. The board reelected its president 3-1 and appointed a vice president unanimously amid governance concerns. Water storage stands exceptionally strong at 77% capacity at Don Pedro, with MID’s portion just under 400,000 acre-feet, positioning the district well for the 2026 irrigation season.
District presented a significantly revised groundwater replenishment program draft through in-lieu recharge and direct recharge facilities. A new 'limited implementation year' option allows up to 12,000 acre-feet at $400 per acre-foot, potentially doubling program availability. The enhanced program eliminates board discretion by automatically activating when two objective criteria are met: uncapped allocations and excess river flows above regulatory minimums.
The board tabled proposed marina contract amendments following public concerns about increased insurance costs and boat repair restrictions. Water storage remains strong at 75% reservoir capacity with significantly higher groundwater pumping in 2024 due to strategic operational changes. Early precipitation levels are promising at 70-130% of normal, while salmon recovery efforts showed extraordinary success with over 2,300 fish counted this season.
