Catch up on the latest GSA board meeting recaps anytime—on the road, on your tractor, or at home.
The Colorado River system remains in crisis with Lake Mead projected at 31% capacity, triggering another Tier 1 shortage for 2025 and creating pressure for basin states to reach agreement by November 11 on post-2026 operations. The board approved approximately $90 million in conservation program funding, with staff reporting 99% completion of field analysis and over 70% farmer participation in water-saving efforts. Board members also discussed restructuring their meeting format to separate formal business sessions from strategic work sessions, allowing all directors to participate in policy discussions rather than limiting participation through committee structures.
The district reported having 340,000 acre-feet of water supply remaining after using 503,000 acre-feet through August, while CVP allocation remains at 55%. A major pipeline failure at Pleasant Valley Pumping Plant flooded the facility with 5 feet of water, requiring emergency repairs and highlighting the need for improved automated controls. Staff presented solar power cost analysis showing significant 10-year savings through PERPA conversion and White Pine proposals compared to current PG&E rates.
The district welcomed a new Customer Service Supervisor who has already improved staff morale and customer service operations. Major infrastructure progress continued with 13 active construction projects adding over 2 miles of water main and 1.5 miles of sewer main, plus 300 new service connections. The board received financial recognition for excellence in reporting and approved significant budget amendments including a $5.4 million rollover for tank project completion.
The committee discussed finalizing groundwater allocation rules for 2026, developing domestic well mitigation programs, and responding to new state requirements for subsidence monitoring. Growers need to be aware of upcoming deadlines for allocation opt-ins and alternative water source reporting.
The board addressed ongoing challenges with state oversight exclusion hearing delays and low well registration compliance while approving a promising groundwater banking feasibility study. Key operational updates included water delivery reports and equipment purchases, with continued focus on subsidence management around the Friant-Kern Canal.
