California Department of Water Resources

The California Water Plan 2028 addresses the state's escalating water challenges intensified by climate change, encompassing heat, changing snowpack and precipitation patterns, and sea level rise. Mandated by SB72, the plan establishes an interim statewide target of 9 million acre-feet by 2040 to offset heat-driven water demand deficits. Key focus areas include improving water efficiency, increasing water recycling, upgrading existing infrastructure, developing new water capture infrastructure, and utilizing detailed watershed-specific data. The plan also emphasizes expanding engagement with diverse stakeholders, including tribal nations, through regional forums and technical groups. The overarching goal is to proactively ensure clean, safe, affordable, and secure water for all Californians, the economy, and the environment through robust state and local collaboration.

The committee discussed the implementation of new legislation (Senate Bill 72 and 659) affecting the California Water Plan, focusing on its action-oriented nature. The meeting addressed the historical context of California water management, a new roadmap for future water planning, and the significance of the 9 million acre-feet goal. Additionally, there was a focus on strengthening government-to-government relationships with tribal nations, integrating tribal knowledge into water management planning, and establishing a tribal acknowledgement statement.

The committee discussed strategies related to the California Water Plan, specifically focusing on water supply strategies, groundwater management, and the implementation of forecast informed reservoir operations (FIRO) to improve water storage. Additionally, the committee received an overview of the Water Storage Investment Program (WISP), detailing its public benefit funding model, the state-local partnership structure, and the status of selected projects.

The board meeting will address several key business items, including the approval of various flood infrastructure and conservation bank permits. The agenda features a legislative update, reports from the United States Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Water Resources, and detailed staff activity reports across multiple divisions. Additionally, the Board will consider enforcement actions, specifically the affirmation of a cease and desist order, and conduct a closed session to discuss ongoing litigation and personnel matters.

The meeting focused on key collaborative initiatives, including defining roles and responsibilities and establishing drought indicators and metrics. Discussions centered on the importance of community preparedness for potential drought cycles, managing groundwater resources through the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, and coordinating water data and planning efforts across state agencies. Participants also reviewed the goals for the upcoming year, which include the development and publication of white papers on the identified focus areas.