RFC Dedicated to Groundwater Sustainability

Author- Scott Williams- Land Permitting and Compliance Specialist

Another interesting day (In February 2025) dedicated to Groundwater Sustainability! This morning (In February 2025) was spent with the East Turlock Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA), followed by an afternoon with the West Turlock GSA. 

The Turlock subbasin covers an impressive 347,000 acres, with 72% allocated to agriculture, 15% to non-agriculture, and 7% to urban development. While it’s categorized as a High Priority Subbasin, it hasn’t yet reached a critical overdraft condition, which presents us with a great opportunity for proactive management. Currently, around 475,500 acre-feet of water are being withdrawn annually.

Due to the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), local agencies are empowered to take charge of groundwater management. Each GSA is tasked with crafting and executing a sustainability plan tailored to their unique area. If these ambitious goals are not met, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) is ready to step in and ensure progress is made. 

I have to say, this concern is becoming one of the most fascinating projects I’m involved in. It’s inspiring to witness how the different Groundwater Sustainability Agencies are rolling out their plans and the positive impacts on groundwater levels each GSA is observing. While some farmers might be facing challenges, it’s a reminder of the importance of early planning and collaboration to mitigate such issues. 

The Well Mitigation Program is currently in the Program Environmental Impact Report (PIER) phase under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Although around 85 wells are projected to run dry if groundwater levels continue to decline, the California Department of Water Resources is optimistic about developing a plan, with adoption expected by early 2025. This element is particularly intriguing, and I look forward to seeing the final plan and how we can effectively implement it. 

Meanwhile, the Multi-Purpose Land Repurposing Program (MLRP) is making strides with an $8.89 million grant from the California Department of Conservation. This voluntary demand reduction program aims to repurpose 21,000 acres by collaborating with landowners to transition certain irrigated areas into non-irrigated uses. I’m eager to explore opportunities to propose projects to specific GSAs that could benefit both our company and the community.