The Department of Water Resources requested a comprehensive response by April 30, 2026, addressing questions about seawater intrusion management in the critically overdrafted 180/400 subbasin. Participants raised concerns about the $127–168 million annual cost of the Brackish Groundwater Restoration Project and its economic impacts. All remaining subbasins will undergo periodic evaluations by January 2027, with possible GSP amendments.
The committee discussed the upcoming five‑year review of the 2022 Groundwater Sustainability Plan, due January 2027, which will address regulatory requirements and incorporate new monitoring data. Staff noted that project options for the Corral de Tierra area appear limited and costly, so demand management may need to play a primary role. The free water efficiency pilot program has seen very low participation despite outreach efforts.
Public commenters highlighted a DWR December letter on the 180/400 foot aquifer and an April 30 response date, warning that failure could lead to state intervention and fines. Staff and consultants showed that deep aquifers extend further than previously mapped and contain very old water with no known direct surface recharge. Seawater intrusion continues advancing despite existing projects, especially in the 400‑foot aquifer.
The Executive Committee meeting was canceled at 10:10 AM due to lack of quorum. A special meeting will be scheduled to address postponed agenda items, including updates to the Joint Powers Agreement and Bylaws, as well as a mid-term appointment for a SBC vacancy.
Consultant presentations on GSA-run modeling indicated that turning off all Upper Valley and Forebay pumping would change simulated seawater intrusion by about 4%, a result that stakeholders debated. Several speakers linked these findings to future Proposition 218 cost-allocation discussions, while staff said the specific runs will not be directly used in GSP implementation. DWR requested additional clarity on progress toward sustainability goals in the critically overdrafted basin.
