Catch up on the latest GSA board meeting recaps anytime—on the road, on your tractor, or at home.
This WAC meeting was largely informational, with presenters updating the board on key issues. East Turlock GSA demonstrated a new groundwater accounting platform to help farmers manage allocations and credits. UC ANR highlighted the challenges small-scale farmers face in complying with SGMA. Staff also outlined upcoming deadlines in the Modesto, Turlock, and Delta-Mendota subbasins.
The board addressed a critical golden mussel infestation threatening water infrastructure, with invasive species now reaching key facilities and requiring immediate treatment measures including hot water flushes and chemical treatments. Directors approved a long-awaited water supply agreement to provide treated water to wholesale customers, enabling better water quality management through blending capabilities. The board also authorized a $404,230 contract for the required 5-year GSP evalu...
DWR’s Keith Wallace was invited by the Paso Basin board to clarify the state’s enforcement role after questions at prior meetings. He confirmed that basins failing to fund and implement sustainability plans risk state takeover, probation, and loss of local control. The Authority remains on emergency funding after the failed Prop 218, with an October 22 budget meeting set to address long-term financing. Meanwhile, a land fallowing program is on track for February, providing the first tool to..
The board approved continuing a $20 per acre-foot reserve fee to fund over $1.5 million in projected legal expenses and established a new $7.25 basin assessment for Las Posas Valley optimization projects. With 17% of water users in overuse situations and 23% failing to submit required reports, board members indicated they will pursue automatic enforcement actions rather than continuing to send warnings. Annual water allocations were approved maintaining the existing operating yield...
The committee reviewed a new valley-wide demand management framework that uses staged triggers (Stage 0-4) to determine pumping reduction levels based on groundwater conditions. Staff analysis found no significant correlation between pumping and nitrate levels, recommending against developing water quality action levels since groundwater management wouldn't effectively address contamination issues. The committee generally supported the demand management concept but requested more details on..
