California Department of Water Resources

The meeting focused on reviewing progress regarding two primary initiatives: rules and responsibilities, and drought indicators and metrics. Key discussion topics included a hydrology report from the state climatologist regarding current water year trends and surface water storage, as well as an overview of opportunities available under Prop 4 for funding. The collaborative examined strategies for enhancing statewide resilience to drought and water shortages through improved basin conditions and better coordination across state departments and agencies.

The meeting focuses on the master planning process for the Lewis Rubidoux Parkland and Pecan Grove site. Discussions highlight project objectives, including community enrichment, land revitalization, creek restoration, sustainable agriculture, and wildlife rehabilitation. The presentation outlines the project's five-year and twenty-year development plans, strategies for managing infrastructure and safety, and funding approaches involving grant applications. The session emphasizes the importance of public feedback to develop a shared vision for the property among various stakeholders and regional partners.

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.