The GSA is working on an expedited timeline to submit a revised GSP and apply for “good actor” status to seek exclusion from State Water Board fees. Landowner pumping reports are due May 1, 2026, and the board discussed targeting a GSP submission as soon as January–February to improve their position on fees. A significant dispute emerging over methodologies to determine sustainable yield. Directors questioned having the same consultant work for both agencies creates an appearance of conflict.
The Board approved a draft groundwater allocation policy for public comment, establishing sustainable yield allocations of 0.66 acre-feet per acre with transitional periods and trading mechanisms. Staff presented preliminary implementation costs of approximately $28 per acre-foot annually, totaling $1.82 million, with the largest expense being $960,000 for domestic well mitigation. The agency continues coordinating closely with neighboring groundwater authorities on outreach and policy...
The Groundwater Sustainability Agency is finalizing an allocation policy that would assign 0.66 acre-feet per acre for properties 5 acres and larger, with transitional pumping allowances stepping down through 2040. Subsidence remains a major concern and could trigger pumping restrictions before groundwater level thresholds are reached, especially given the basin’s limited monitoring equipment. Well registration has reached about 66% of parcels, with continued outreach underway and domestic...
A groundwater sustainability agency faces a severe financial crisis with only $84,000 remaining in its bank account, prompting board approval to request an advance on property tax collections from the county. Meanwhile, staff presented detailed plans for a domestic well mitigation program to address wells going dry due to declining groundwater levels, requiring new funding mechanisms beyond current assessments. The agency is also finalizing critical allocation and subsidence management plans, with hopes to present the allocation plan by October that will project water requirements through 2040.
The board addressed low well registration rates and significant ground subsidence that could trigger pumping restrictions, while developing costly water quality monitoring programs under state pressure. Key decisions included maintaining current leadership, postponing registration penalties, and continuing budget discussions for preliminary $21 per acre-foot pumping fees.
