Catch up on the latest GSA board meeting recaps anytime—at home, on the road, or on your tractor.
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The Stanislaus County Water Advisory Committee approved its May 27 minutes. A Non-District East groundwater-use action plan, including an accounting platform, targets the 2027 growing season. A reviewer said demand reduction is needed, but later reduction requirements could be revised downward; no change was approved. Consultant Chris Heppner outlined state grants, while county staff invited project ideas and updated Eastern San Joaquin groundwater accounting.
The board approved its first GSP periodic evaluation, including added context for declining water use. Staff reported that DWR has set aside $3.5 million in Prop 4 funding for small GSAs; grant guidelines remain in development. Fiscal 2025–26 extractions totaled 3,133 acre-feet versus 3,125 budgeted, with revenue within $1,500 of projections. The board also approved the 2027 meeting schedule and INTERA’s annual-report work order.
Basin storage was near its 2024 low, and seasonal outlooks favored above-average winter precipitation. The board authorized written verification for a proposed 35-acre-foot-per-year Hermitage Road shallow well after a technical review. It appointed Miranda Patton as general manager and adopted the FY 2026–27 budget without groundwater fee increases, projecting a $42,500 deficit to be covered by savings.
At its September 24 meeting, the Kern County Water Agency board voted to enter closed session on three existing litigation matters, one potential suit, and negotiations over State Water Project water price and terms. The agenda also scheduled hearings on the proposed fiscal year 2027-28 Zones of Benefit Report and an impasse, and listed golden mussel response items.
Forebay lacked a quorum and took no action; Upper Valley conducted business. The Board advanced Portfolio 3A for further work amid substantial cost concerns. Staff reported that the groundwater model overestimates winter river flows, with broader effects still under review. A commenter urged staff to identify and rerun affected draft-plan analyses before adoption. Draft Forebay and Upper Valley groundwater sustainability plan amendments are open for comment.
