The Multi-Benefit Land Repurposing Program plan finalization has been delayed until December as the district awaits final comments from the Department of Conservation. Growers interested in submitting land repurposing project applications should prioritize submissions by December 1st to receive priority consideration for current funding, with all projects requiring implementation by December 2026. The district will begin targeted outreach to landowners in identified priority areas using...
The Multi-benefit Land Repurposing Plan's final approval has been delayed until November due to pending state feedback, with project applications due December 1st for priority consideration. Despite outreach efforts, no new projects have been submitted to date, prompting plans for enhanced community engagement including virtual meetings and networking events. All funded projects must be completed by December 2026 to meet current grant requirements.
The district reported 273,000 acre-feet of supply remaining through August, with use slightly above forecast and year-end carryover projected at the 120,000 acre-foot cap. It is anticipating $25 million in federal funding for recharge projects, with the required match met through existing wells and land. The board also adopted a Science Program Accountability Strategy to advance endangered species recovery while easing regulatory pressure on water use.
The district reported having 340,000 acre-feet of water supply remaining after using 503,000 acre-feet through August, while CVP allocation remains at 55%. A major pipeline failure at Pleasant Valley Pumping Plant flooded the facility with 5 feet of water, requiring emergency repairs and highlighting the need for improved automated controls. Staff presented solar power cost analysis showing significant 10-year savings through PERPA conversion and White Pine proposals compared to current PG&E rates.
The board discussed strong water supply conditions with balanced allocations and significantly reduced groundwater pumping demonstrating successful groundwater management. Key focus areas included implementing federal executive orders for increased water supply and launching new science initiatives to challenge regulatory restrictions on water deliveries.
