Updated modeling shows most minimum-threshold exceedance events are smaller; staff will proceed with detailed analysis of Event 3 and combined Events 6–8. The five-year GSP periodic evaluation is underway; staff proposed deferring any GSP amendment until after a court physical solution. Ordinance No. 5 was adopted.
The Board approved a first reading of an ordinance that would reduce flowmeter accuracy testing frequency for smaller wells (5–10 year intervals vs. the prior 3–5 year schedule). Staff outlined a modeling plan to study how upstream pumping affects streamflow at Foster Park, with work likely extending into mid‑2026. Monitoring showed the basin did not fully recharge in spring 2025, with declining flows and at least one shallow well going dry.
The board supported exempting small groundwater users (pumping 2-10 acre-feet annually) from costly five-year meter testing requirements, with a formal ordinance amendment to follow. Staff recommended pausing expensive modeling work on surface water depletion analysis to avoid duplicating efforts already underway in the adjudication process. Updated data shows groundwater extraction projections are 6% lower than originally estimated.
The board addressed significant groundwater modeling issues after discovering stream flow measurements were taken up to 1,400 feet from official gauge locations, requiring extensive model recalibration. Three major work orders totaling $238,573 were approved for critical compliance activities including modeling support, required 5-year evaluation, and annual reporting. Additionally, amendments to the joint powers agreement were approved to change voting requirements from unanimous to...
