DWR found two subsidence deficiencies in the Merced Subbasin groundwater plan. Staff aim to resubmit by April 6, 2027. Satellite data showed roughly 1–2.5 feet of land-surface decline in affected areas from June 2015 to June 2025, with one localized area approaching four feet for reasons not yet clear. Staff reported no significant changes to the 2023–2025 allocation and said about 450 well flow meters were read over the past year to help refine groundwater accounting.
The committee discussed a proposed new three-year allocation period starting January 1, 2026 that would give all agricultural accounts 3.3 acre-feet per acre, with flow meter deadlines in March 2026 for groundwater-only users. A 3% annual loss on unused carryover was proposed, and the committee will recommend these policies to the board on January 14, 2026.
