1. New data will inform the groundwater plan update. Airborne electromagnetic data, the Deep Aquifers Study and information from new monitoring wells have refined understanding of the Monterey Subbasin. Seven wells were completed in the Marina-Ord area and five in the Corral de Tierra area. Bedrock rises partially limit groundwater flow between the El Toro and Highway 68 bowls, though the areas are not entirely disconnected. Staff will use the updated understanding in its water-budget analysis and Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) amendment. More monitoring data is needed before sustainable management criteria can be established for the new wells.
2. The well dataset is a starting point, not a complete inventory. The Water Resource Agency’s registration program had been in place for about six months when staff received the data. The Monterey Subbasin dataset identifies 55 wells meeting information requirements that include location, depth and ownership. Staff expects more wells to be identified. Members questioned the classification of agricultural and production wells, and one suggested contacting the Trust for Public Land about agricultural wells that may need to be added.
Already have an account? Sign In
