California Water Commission Meeting to Address Groundwater Issues

Stakeholders gather to discuss crucial groundwater management strategies in California.

News Summary

On August 20, 2023, the California Water Commission will convene at the California Natural Resources Building in Sacramento to discuss vital topics including groundwater trading and the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). The meeting aims to foster stakeholder engagement and will be live-streamed to enhance public participation. Key discussions will focus on groundwater management challenges, land subsidence, and updates on regulatory changes within the Water Storage Investment Program, catering to the diverse needs of local water users and small farmers.

California will be the host of an important meeting conducted by the California Water Commission on August 20, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. This gathering aims to address crucial subjects like groundwater trading and the ongoing implementation of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). Stakeholders from various levels of government and agencies will share critical insights regarding the regulation and management of California’s groundwater resources.

The meeting will take place at the California Natural Resources Building, located on P Street in Sacramento. It will also be live-streamed, allowing broader public engagement and participation. The session is designed to encourage stakeholder input with options for remote commenting, ensuring that voices from the community, including small and mid-scale farmers, are included in discussions about groundwater management.

Among the agenda highlights, representatives from the California Department of Water Resources and the State Water Resources Control Board will discuss their respective roles in implementing SGMA. Their contributions will shed light on the state’s strategies for achieving groundwater sustainability.

The Commission will also provide a status update on its 2022 white paper concerning groundwater trading. This document aims to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of trading as a solution for sustainable groundwater practices. Additionally, officials from the Mid-Kaweah Groundwater Sustainability Agency are expected to present their experiences and efforts in promoting groundwater trading practices among local water users.

Another important topic set for discussion is the management of land subsidence in California. Land subsidence is a significant issue that results from fluctuations in groundwater levels, which can cause considerable environmental and infrastructure challenges. Presenting innovative management practices in this area can help address critical concerns related to fluctuating water availability.

The Commission will also consider potential changes to the Water Storage Investment Program regulations. These changes may include revisions related to early funding and inflationary increases to better support water storage initiatives. These contemplated adjustments come after the withdrawal of the Los Vaqueros Reservoir Expansion Project and follow the passage of Proposition 4 in 2024.

This meeting serves as a platform for providing local insights and strategies to effectively tackle groundwater sustainability challenges facing California. With the participation of various stakeholders, the Commission aims to find balanced solutions that meet the diverse needs of all interested parties, especially focusing on the inclusion of smaller farming operations in discussions on groundwater management.

Overall, the August 20 meeting represents a critical opportunity for the California Water Commission to engage stakeholders effectively and refine approaches to groundwater management amid significant challenges in the region’s water resources. The collaborative effort seeks to promote conversation and cooperation as California works toward a sustainable future for its vital groundwater resources.