Akiela Moses

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.

The board meeting agenda included an award presentation, a public forum, and consideration of several key items. These items included the adoption of amendments to the Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook, the adoption of guidelines for administering Proposition 4 funding to address water quality in rivers crossing the Mexico-United States border, and the consideration of a resolution to deny requests for exclusion from reporting and fees for groundwater sustainability agencies in the Tule Subbasin. Additionally, the meeting featured an informational report from board members and a closed session regarding water rights and Delta water management projects.