Catch up on the latest GSA board meeting recaps anytime—at home, on the road, or on your tractor.
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The board approved a 2027 irrigation rate increase, setting fixed charges at $65/acre and volumetric rates at $10.75–$18.25/acre-foot. A motion to freeze volumetric rates at 2026 levels was also approved (3–2), though the final staff-recommended rate schedule then passed (4–1). An emergency water conveyance agreement for Circle JM was ratified, capped at 100 acre-feet over six weeks. The board also authorized a ~$4M flow meter program.
Groundwater discussions focused on urgent City of Tulare well impacts and strategies including exchanges, paid fallow, and injection wells. The summer run ended after six weeks, delivering ~68,000 acre-feet amid strong demand. Staff discussed golden mussels and Friant FY2027 budget including a ~$3.5M chemical treatment program.
Residents near the proposed Phase 3 flood wall raised concerns during general public comment about safety, river access, and quality of life, and requested a dedicated neighborhood meeting as the project nears a reported 35% design milestone. Directors Alessio, Gallagher, and Manfree voiced support for stakeholder outreach and discussed considering newer approaches and design elements, noting the original plans are over 20 years old.
Groundwater use management and well mitigation programs are moving toward January 2027 implementation, with each management area developing action plans to meet allocation criteria. Don Pedro Reservoir sits at 93% capacity, though end-of-season projections are roughly 10 feet lower than last year. A new development fee schedule is being introduced to shift engineering and administrative costs from irrigation ratepayers to urban development projects, with a public hearing in late August.
The board approved a $16.5M Webb Tract wetland contract after a divided vote and debate over Delta island strategy; a caller said Adelto Conservancy is providing a $21M grant supporting the project. The board also approved Item 8-6 agreements to add conserved water to Lake Mead under existing ICS exhibits. A Delta market study is expected by Dec. 2026.
