1. EKI identified weaknesses in the 2025 Tulare Lake model calibration. In the South Fork Kings area, the calibration had a 22% normalized water-level error and a mean error of about 50 feet. It overpredicted upper-aquifer water levels and underpredicted lower-aquifer water levels. Participants questioned whether all available local observations had been included; additional district records may be available. The A clay layer, associated with a shallow aquifer of particular local importance, is not explicitly represented in the model. EKI developed A clay and C clay surfaces to aid future work. It will continue technical coordination but has paused further model evaluation until the updated 2026 model is available. More local water-level and well-construction data could improve future modeling; the board made no allocation change.
2. GEARS reporting deadlines are approaching. The next reporting period covers October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, and reports are due February 1, 2027. Staff said penalties of 25% per month begin February 1 for overdue reports from either reporting period. ET-based reporting is changing from a per-parcel to a per-well basis, requiring an estimate of each well’s contribution. Staff also reiterated metering requirements for higher-volume wells. A state letter with details is expected in early November.
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