Catch up on the latest GSA board meeting recaps anytime—on the road, on your tractor, or at home.
The agency is accelerating into "ludicrous speed" with 15 critical decisions required in 2025-2026, including major project selections for addressing seawater intrusion and groundwater overdraft by fall 2025. A water efficiency program targeting rural residents showed limited reach with only 144 survey responses despite extensive social media outreach. Key feasibility studies for brackish groundwater restoration, demand management frameworks, and canal alternatives are all scheduled to...
The County is advancing multiple groundwater pumping reduction programs, including a pilot water tracking app and vineyard replanting incentives. A new recharge feasibility study is analyzing three scenarios for water storage and conservation, with results expected in November. Stream flow monitoring shows that 10% pumping reductions near waterways could significantly increase low flows and reduce stream depletion, while new stream gauges will improve monitoring capabilities.
The Board postponed approval of $5.8 million in construction management contracts for major infrastructure projects due to concerns about awarding management contracts before construction contracts, which differs from historical practice. Following recent political violence, safety protocols including "Run, Hide, Fight" procedures were discussed to enhance employee security. A new employee retention policy was approved offering financial incentives for workers who provide 6-24 months...
FID reports stable 2025 supplies with Class 1 at 100% and Kings River boosted by late storms, though storage could dip near 200,000 AF. Major dredging on the Herndon Canal and basin projects are restoring delivery and flood capacity. The revised budget shifted funds to cover higher SGMA costs, with 821 wells registered and domestic well mitigation claims pending. Big Dry Creek project costs climbed to $11.5M, and Fresno has filed suit against FID.
The 2025 water season concluded with gates closing September 12th, ending with 14,000-15,000 acre feet in storage after gaining 153,000 acre feet this year. The board approved the new fiscal year budget with water surcharges increasing to $11.36 per acre foot, and approved funding for additional maintenance staff. Management presented compelling data showing significant groundwater level recovery achieved through operational changes since 2017, demonstrating how prioritizing recharge...
