Napa County Groundwater Technical Advisory Group reviewed proposed streamflow-depletion thresholds of 35% in May, 75% in June and 95% in July, plus percentage-based May and June measurable objectives. Modeled July depletion exceeded the threshold at Pope Street and Oak Knoll in 2024 and 2025; 2026 is pending. Members elected 2027 officers and adopted five meeting dates. Presenters discussed recharge permits, conditional flood diversions without a permit and a vineyard recharge guide.
Napa County supervisors adopted a Winery Order ordinance giving the county Environmental Health Division local oversight of its implementation and reauthorized the Winegrape Pest and Disease Control District through 2032. They made no groundwater allocation or fee changes and did not amend sustainability plans. Supervisor Gallagher reported that the Climate Action Committee adopted a regional climate plan that the county and other jurisdictions will consider.
Napa Green announced a $3 million grant, including more than $2 million for direct grower payments subject to federal requirements. The board unanimously approved a motion of intention to adopt a winery wastewater oversight ordinance and consent items increasing a Lake Berryessa wastewater contract by $299,132 and authorizing a $3 million Napa Sanitation District reimbursement agreement. A presentation on 2026 Water Availability Analysis guidance was scheduled for 1:30 p.m.
The Agricultural Commissioner outlined how the County responds to abandoned or neglected vineyards, including an AB 732 penalty option. Supervisors discussed red blotch concerns and possible hardship-focused support. The Board held its TRUTH Act forum reviewing 2025 data and noting 2026 year-to-date trends, along with policy updates, then continued the forum to Sept. 29 at 6:00 PM.
GSA staff reported groundwater fee rates were reduced about 55% after the GSA allocated $750,000 from fund balance and approved the revised levy roll on Aug. 11 for placement on property tax bills. Staff said the Periodic Evaluation draft is planned around Oct. 19 for comment, with final action tentatively Dec. 8. Staff discussed tentative interim refinements to evaluate streamflow depletion as May–July percentage depletion.
