Top 3 Key Takeaways
Significant Budget Increase for Required State Reporting - The agency faces a substantial expense of approximately $200,000 for the mandatory 5-year Groundwater Sustainability Plan periodic evaluation due in January 2027. Board members expressed frustration that this expensive reporting requirement provides little new information for a stable basin like Ojai, which has consistently managed water sustainably for decades without subsidence or overdraft conditions.
Basin Continues Healthy Recovery Despite Dry Conditions - Despite no rainfall since spring and dropping groundwater levels to 131.82 feet below ground surface, the basin maintains 75% capacity with about 60,000 acre-feet in storage. The agency's hydrogeologist demonstrated that current pumping (1,572 acre-feet) nearly matches the estimated recharge (1,600 acre-feet) for 2025, showing the basin's natural balance.
Legislative Relief Efforts Being Pursued - The board is actively working with a coalition of small groundwater agencies to seek legislative changes that would exempt small, stable basins from costly reporting requirements. They're exploring options including rejoining alternative demonstration programs or establishing exemptions for basins under 5,000 acre-feet annually that show no signs of overdraft or environmental damage.
Additional Key Takeaways
New wells continue being drilled in the basin, with interesting geological data showing the depth to bedrock varies significantly even within short distances
The agency implemented a $100 per acre-foot fee for GSP implementation that has built up sufficient reserves to fund upcoming requirements
One well owner remains non-compliant with meter installation requirements and will face a board hearing for additional penalties
The agency is updating its financial policies to give the General Manager authority to approve professional services contracts up to $25,000 without board approval
Current water usage remains low at around 3,500 acre-feet annually, barely above historical levels when Golden State Water served the area
Staff reported good progress with meter compliance training, with many well owners coming in for assistance with accurate reporting
The agency continues developing an Access Database system for improved data management
Board Actions
Approved:
No Formal Actions Taken:
How to Engage
For questions or comments, contact the Ojai Basin Groundwater Management Agency at obgma@aol.com or 805.640.1207. The next regular meeting is scheduled for September 25, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Ojai City Hall, with Zoom participation available.
