Top 3 Key Takeaways

1. Groundwater Level Monitoring and Minimum Thresholds Under Review

The GSA is evaluating whether to expand its Representative Monitoring Site (RMS) network by adding eight new wells and incorporating updated domestic well inventory data. Staff presented three options: recalculating minimum thresholds (MTs) using the 2022 methodology with new data, using historical minimum groundwater levels minus an agreed-upon buffer, or maintaining current MTs while quantifying domestic wells at risk. The Board directed staff to prepare side-by-side comparisons of 2022 versus 2025 data using consistent methodology, including clearly defining and bringing back options for a well-construction cutoff year (such as post‑1980 wells), to inform future decisions. This work responds to DWR's recommended corrective action to better quantify how many domestic wells would be impacted if groundwater levels reached minimum thresholds during extended drought conditions.