Catch up on the latest GSA board meeting recaps anytime—at home, on the road, or on your tractor.
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The board approved a ~$190K contract to update the groundwater model with recent hydrology data for SGMA work. A new state grant round (300M+ statewide) may offer 100% funding; recharge near Corcoran was discussed. Staff said non-reporting can affect allocations; non-compliance fees were not added yet.
The board approved 2026 fixed obligation rates at 30% SWP allocation: SWP FO $630/AF (net $562/AF after ~$4M groundwater credits), supplemental FO $445/AF, and melded FO $502/AF (~1.72 AF/acre). A $15/acre OMR rate increase was approved to offset golden mussel treatment costs, with ~50% mussel mortality reported so far. The board also voted unanimously to oppose AB 2447, a bill critics warn could collapse California's irrigated lands regulatory program and agricultural production.
Terra Bella plans a Nov. 1 shutdown for the new canal tie-in and expects to be back online by Feb. 1. The Bureau confirmed TBID will stay at 100% Class 1 this year. Millerton is ~28,000 AF from spilling; any spill would be URF/non-storable and not expected to affect TBID. Lower Tule named a new manager; staff will monitor the exchange arrangement.
The board set the 2026 irrigation water price at $150/AF (vs. ~$190/AF break-even), implying ~$2.4M in reserve support. Staff planned to begin charging May 14 due to a projected Millerton spill; delivery timing varies by location. The board approved Land IQ ET monitoring (~$67,907/yr) and discussed using it initially for measurement (no billing yet discussed).
Metered allocated delivery starts May 18; allocation is projected near ~1.1 AF/AC. The board approved the revised 2026 budget (~$59.4K surplus) and approved signing the Greenleaf EarthTec QZ contract ($15/AF; $20K down payment only if treatment begins). Poplar recharge budget increased to ~$110K. $225K set aside for potential golden mussel treatment. Treatment begins if pump-back resumes or mussels are found. Growers advised to consult their PCA before using treated water on sensitive crops.
