The Multi-Benefit Land Repurposing Program held its first combined Steering and Outreach Advisory meeting, establishing a new structure. Three groundwater recharge pilot projects from Westlands are advancing through the review process and are expected to be scored by the December 17th meeting. Project submissions are now open with a Dec 1st priority consideration date, and projects must reduce reliance on groundwater and provide benefits to disadvantaged communities for at least 10 years.
District is experiencing strong supply for 2025-26, with CVP allocation rising to 55% and Northern California reservoirs performing above forecasts due to 88% above-average early-season precipitation. Water rates were reduced by approximately $12.95 per acre-foot, reflecting both the improved allocation and mid-year budget cuts. The invasive golden mussel has been detected in the distribution system, prompting the district to develop management strategies and provide guidance to growers.
The district achieved approximately 200,000 acre-feet in additional water supply benefits this year due to federal policy changes that shifted from strict minimization approaches to population-level impact assessments. Current Central Valley Project allocations stand at 55% with reservoirs above historic averages, suggesting next year's allocations could range from 15-65% depending on conditions. Groundwater management efforts are showing strong results with rising groundwater levels and...
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.
