Arsenic levels in certain Corral de Tierra wells rise with groundwater, creating a management paradox with no clear pumping solution. A five-year Groundwater Sustainability Plan evaluation is the primary focus for the coming year, with amendments required. A public commenter warned that seawater intrusion in the 180/400-Foot Aquifer Subbasin could trigger state action within 18–24 months, while staff noted that modeling shows pumping cuts alone will not solve seawater intrusion and ...
Groundwater models showed 25-30 years of slowly declining levels in Upper Valley and Forebay areas, though several committee members cited field evidence of rising water levels. The consultant stressed that seawater intrusion along an approximately 11-mile coastal stretch must be addressed within the 2040 SGMA timeframe. Discussion continued over integrated valley-wide planning versus focusing resources on the most impacted areas.
The Executive Committee discussed amendments to the Joint Powers Agreement and bylaws to correct outdated member references, clarify South County city representation, and adjust officer rotation language to align with the JPA's allowance for multiple consecutive terms. They also signaled support for more frequent, structured recruitment to fill ongoing vacancies on subbasin committees.
The committee reviewed the timeline for the 2027 Groundwater Sustainability Plan periodic evaluation and a planned amendment that will use the first five years of implementation data. The Board accepted a Demand Management Framework, with no immediate implementation; staff will develop one mandatory allocation measure for severely impacted deep aquifer areas and three voluntary programs for a future fiscal year. Staff also reported that the well registration program offers free ...
The Board heard feasibility updates on New Seawater Intrusion Project concepts with large storage and pipeline needs and on Castroville intake alternatives relying on Permit 11043 winter flows. Staff clarified no mandatory demand management cutbacks will begin July 1, 2026 and that programs are still being developed. The 180/400 aquifer remains in a Stage 4 severity category.
