Wyandotte Creek Groundwater Sustainability Agency

This document details the Wyandotte Creek Groundwater Sustainability Agency's strategy to achieve long-term groundwater sustainability within the subbasin by reducing groundwater dependence. The strategy is founded on four core pillars: maximizing the use of surface water, enhancing recharge opportunities, implementing demand reduction measures through conservation and efficiency, and strengthening vision, planning, and partnerships. Key initiatives include the Regional Conjunctive Use Project, which aims to increase surface water use and promote precision irrigation, ensuring a reliable water supply and improved aquifer health.

The board reviewed project outcomes for the Sustainable Groundwater Management Grant Program, covering final updates on the Regional Conjunctive Use Project and the Data Gap Identification and Monitoring Network Improvements project. Additionally, the board discussed key components of a fee study report and prepared to schedule a future public hearing for fee adoption.

This document provides an update on the Wyandotte Creek Subbasin Regional Conjunctive Use Project. It details efforts to manage excess surface water for flood reduction and groundwater improvement, including the Palermo Recharge and Flood Control Pipeline Project and the Twin Spill project for surface water supply. The update covers infrastructure design, hydraulic modeling, pilot recharge initiatives, and outlines a water exchange agreement among participating parties, focusing on achieving regional water sustainability.

The board meeting agenda included several key items. Discussions were planned regarding the Annual Status of the Wyandotte Creek Subbasin Brochure for Water Year 2025, presented by consulting engineers. A major topic involved receiving a presentation on sustainable yield and overdraft as part of the GSP Periodic Evaluation, which included reviewing the proposed updated methodology for estimating sustainable yield based on measured groundwater levels, and directing staff on PMA classifications. Reports were scheduled from the Management Committee and a summary of well permits from the Butte County Public Health Department. The agenda also allocated time for public comment on non-agenda items.

The Board meeting agenda included the Pledge of Allegiance, Roll Call, and the Election of a new Chair and Vice Chair. Key discussion items involved considering the appointment of Jacob Weinzinger to the Wyandotte Creek GSA Advisory Committee (WAC) for the Agricultural Groundwater User stakeholder position. The Board was also scheduled to review and provide direction on the draft five-year projected budget and proposed fee structure, covering cost allocations between Fee Parts 1 and 2, potential exclusions for fallowed parcels, and differential treatment for parcels receiving imported water.