Jack Winship

The Yuba County Water Agency's Groundwater Management Plan (GMP) aims to maintain a viable groundwater resource for the beneficial use of the people of Yuba County. Key objectives include maintaining sustainable groundwater elevations, protecting against inelastic land surface subsidence, preserving and enhancing groundwater quality, and managing groundwater to safeguard surface water flows. The plan also focuses on improving stakeholder communication and coordination, ensuring local control of the groundwater basin, and advancing the understanding of the basin and its stressors through various monitoring and protection programs.

This Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) for the North and South Yuba Subbasins aims to achieve and maintain sustainable groundwater management by 2040, as mandated by California's Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). Developed collaboratively by three Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, the plan addresses key criteria including groundwater levels, storage, water quality, land subsidence, and depletions of interconnected surface water. It outlines monitoring networks, management actions, and projects designed to ensure economically beneficial and reliable groundwater use for Yuba County residents.

The Board of Directors approved Amendment No. 1 to the Joint Power Agreement with Yuba County for the Yuba Water Construction Authority and adopted a resolution approving a petition for a temporary urgency change. Furthermore, the Board determined the need to continue emergency action concerning the Colgate Penstock incident under the Public Contract Code. Additionally, the Board received a presentation regarding three grants awarded to the Hallwood Irrigation Company for completed water infrastructure and automation projects. Directors also provided reports on various regional activities and community events.

The general manager provided an update following a major incident involving a rupture of the agency's pen stock near the Colgate Powerhouse on Friday, February 13, 2026. An estimated 400 acre-feet of water was released, causing significant damage and erosion to the hillside, with sediment and debris entering natural water courses and Eagle's Nest Reservoir. The general manager confirmed that the incident did not pose a flood risk to New Bullards Bar Dam, which remains intact and operational. First responders from multiple agencies were commended for their quick response. The agency is coordinating with regulatory bodies, including the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, under a unified command structure to assess site safety and develop a recovery plan, including debris removal efforts in the reservoir before anticipated incoming winter storms cause the reservoir to spill.

The Yuba Water Agency's Community Impact Grant and Loan Program invests annual revenue from hydroelectric power sales to improve the lives of Yuba County residents. The program strategically supports initiatives focused on protecting the environment, reducing flood risk, enhancing public safety, promoting water education, and ensuring reliable water supplies. Through these investments, the agency aims to build stronger communities and foster a brighter future.