SGMA Special Assessment Approved: The district held a public hearing on a new SGMA special assessment of $22.29 per acre plus an inflation factor, designed to cover ongoing SGMA compliance costs and recover $1.5 million in reserves spent between 2017-2024. The assessment includes annual administrative costs, implementation costs, and can increase annually by no more than the Consumer Price Index inflation rate.
State Board Staff Review Shows Positive Progress: The State Board published their review of the Kern County Subbasin's draft 2025 Groundwater Sustainability Plan, recommending the basin be returned to DWR for review rather than remaining under probationary status. All three remaining issues identified in the draft plan (drinking water well mitigation, small water system mitigation, and sunset provision removal) have been addressed in the final GSP submitted to the state.
Water Supply Allocation Remains Stable: The district maintained its 1.7 acre-foot per acre allocation (1.65 to landowners) despite Zone 7 not delivering any water to the district's bank this year. Wells pumped approximately 12,000-13,000 acre-feet, which aligns with normal operations under the district's SGMA plan, and the loss of Zone 7 water was offset by increased city water supplies.
Probationary Hearing Scheduled: The continuation of the probationary hearing is set for September 17th with four panels representing the subbasin, including wetlands issues and water purveyors.
Friant-Kern Canal Pump Station: Construction continues with concrete pouring for the 4-bay structure completed and electrical coordination with PG&E ongoing.
Flood Repair Funding Received: The district received $718,861 from FEMA for Poso Creek emergency flood repairs, with designs underway for embankment and creek repairs plus Trent Weir work.
Produced Water Pipeline Delayed: The reuse of produced water project has been pushed to end-of-year completion due to extensive biological surveys, though all pipe materials are on-site and ready.
Fish-Friendly Diversion Pilot: The board will consider approving participation in a $60,000 pilot project (4.3% share) to test subsurface water intake technology in the Delta that could avoid fish impacts.
2025 Water Outlook: Manager estimates 25-30% State Water Project allocation for next year, though allocations typically start at 5% and increase based on conditions.
Legislative Victory: AB 1413, which would have limited courts' ability to determine safe yield numbers in groundwater adjudications, has been officially defeated.
Approved:
Tabled:
For questions or to provide input on district matters, contact the Cawelo Water District at their offices. The next regular board meeting will be held on the second Thursday of the following month at 9:00 AM.
