Top 3 Major Takeaways:
Water Bank Environmental Review Nearing Completion - The agency has completed extensive review of all draft environmental documents for the water bank project, including a final consultation with the Table Mountain Tribe. The environmental impact report (EIR) will be released within the next week to 10 days, marking a significant milestone toward construction of the water storage facility.
McMullen Expansion Project Moving Forward - Engineering meetings have been favorable for both dirt moving and steel/concrete portions of the expansion project. Staff reports that construction timelines and budgets remain well within estimates provided by engineers, with possible bidding expected as early as spring 2026.
WaterSMART Grant Rebate Program Exceeding Expectations - The agency has distributed over $1 million in rebates to approximately 100 landowners covering 504 wells, with 917 total wells now eligible for rebates. Additional funds may be available to cover wells beyond the original 945-well grant limit since not all participants are claiming maximum rebate amounts.
Additional Key Takeaways:
Subsidence monitoring has become a high-priority issue statewide, with new best management practices being developed by the Department of Water Resources that could impose zero-tolerance policies in high-risk areas.
The agency remains in excellent condition with no current water allocations imposed on growers.
Grower Irrigation Academy webinars continue with strong attendance, including upcoming sessions in Spanish and Punjabi for irrigation professionals.
State and federal grant opportunities have been limited over the past six months due to USDA reorganization, though new funding may become available soon.
LAFCO annexation proceedings for the white area continue to face delays, with the next critical vote scheduled for August 13th at 1:30 PM.
The next board meeting is scheduled for September 3, 2025, though harvest timing may affect scheduling.
Board Actions:
Engage with MAGSA: For questions or comments, contact the agency through their website at mcmullenarea.org, by email, telephone at (559) 515-3339, or visit the office at 275 S. Madera Avenue, Suite 301, Kerman, CA 93630. The next board meeting is September 3, 2025 at 2:00 PM.
