In a landmark move, the LA News Center reports that California is poised to intervene in the groundwater management of the fertile San Joaquin Valley. A decade after lawmakers tasked local authorities with safeguarding this precious resource, concerns linger over the effectiveness of their efforts.
A Decade of Managed Groundwater: Challenges and Concerns
Since 2014, California groundwater management has been a local responsibility. However, LA News Center officials argue that in the Tulare Lake Subbasin, local water agencies have fallen short in developing a sustainable plan.
Overpumping, droughts, and land subsidence have plagued groundwater in the region. In response, lawmakers set ambitious goals to restore these critical overdrafted basins.
The State’s Decision: A Test of Groundwater Regulations
On Tuesday, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) will hold a hearing to determine if the Tulare Lake Subbasin should be placed under temporary state monitoring. This unprecedented step would shift the oversight of groundwater use from local to state officials.
Local farmers, represented by the Kings County Farm Bureau, express concerns about the state’s ability to manage groundwater effectively. They argue that local control allows for flexibility and tailored solutions.
Targeted Measures in the Tulare Lake Subbasin
If the SWRCB intervenes, it could impose pumping limits, require reporting and fees for excessive usage, and mandate the installation of water meters.
Kings County, home to the Tulare Lake Subbasin, is a vital agricultural hub, producing milk, nuts, and produce. The county also encompasses Tulare Lake, which reappears during heavy rainfall.
Farmers Facing Uncertainty
Farmers in the region are grappling with uncertainty. Doug Freitas, an almond grower, calls for an extension, while Dennis Mills, a groundwater agency director, warns of concrete steps needed to prevent state intervention.
Dairy farmer Joaquin Contente fears pumping fees and caps, regardless of their source. He relies heavily on groundwater to sustain his livestock operation.
The Importance of Local Control
Local officials, like Dusty Ference of the Kings County Farm Bureau, prioritize local control to ensure community involvement and investments in groundwater recharge projects.
The decision by the SWRCB will be a watershed moment, shaping the future of groundwater management in the San Joaquin Valley and setting a precedent for addressing water sustainability in California.
