1. Proposed streamflow criteria highlight July concerns. Staff presented refinements that would set streamflow-depletion minimum thresholds of 35% in May, 75% in June and 95% in July. The refinements would retain the existing volume-based measurable objective and add percentage-based measurable objectives for May and June. Under the proposed criteria, modeled depletion attributed to groundwater use exceeded the July threshold at the Pope Street and Oak Knoll gauges in water years 2024 and 2025. Another consecutive exceedance in water year 2026 could lead to an undesirable result, but that year’s assessment was not complete. The TAG did not vote on the refinements. During public comment, Michelle Benvenuto of Wine Growers of Napa County questioned whether the proposed July limit exceeds the County’s stated goal and SGMA requirements. Staff also discussed using midwinter precipitation to guide future water-conservation outreach.
2. Growers heard about recharge permits and flood-diversion options. Mike Conway of the State Water Resources Control Board recommended a five-year temporary recharge permit as a starting point. Its application fee is the same as for a 180-day permit; applicants seeking a five-year permit should complete CEQA review and consult the California Department of Fish and Wildlife before applying. Conway also explained conditional floodwater diversions without a permit under Water Code Section 1242.1. A recent executive order gives local public-safety authorities more flexibility to identify a qualifying flood risk and issue notice. It does not waive the provision’s other conditions or grant diverters a water right to the recharged water.
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