Board received an update on the Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) pilot project, a joint groundwater management initiative in the region. Groundwater allocations for the 2026 water year and the agency’s probationary exclusion conversation with the State Water Resources Control Board were disccussed intensely. The board approved 2026 allocations that steadily reduce transitional yield to prepare for the State's review in 2026.
Technical consultants recommend reducing groundwater allocation to 1.4 acre-feet per acre for 2026, down from the current 2.5 acre-feet, due to continued land subsidence exceeding minimum thresholds. The district is considering eliminating or significantly reducing precipitation credits and limiting annual usage of landowner developed credits to prevent undermining sustainability goals. These changes aim to address ongoing subsidence issues that persist even during wet years, with final ...
Groundwater levels have recovered to 2013 levels at about 120 feet district-wide, though faster progress is needed to meet 2040 sustainability targets. Staff recommended changes to subsidence management policies, moving away from depth-based pumping restrictions due to complex geology showing most district pumping contributes to subsidence. Board approved a $50,000 public relations campaign to enhance its communication with state regulators and stakeholders outside Central Valley.
The board formally submitted an exclusion request from state probationary status after months of collaboration with regulatory staff. A $5.2 million budget increase was approved due to additional water purchases beyond normal allocations, while the well registration effort continues with 68% of landowners complying and two growers paying penalty rates of over $1,300 per acre-foot for unregistered water use.
