As part of its Integrated Implementation Strategy (IIS) the Salinas Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency (SVBGSA) is evaluating scenarios that address the undesirable groundwater conditions of the subbasins reflecting the hydraulic connectivity and the need for coordinated solutions. In the spring, the SVBGSA completed a major round of feasibility studies for project and management action (PMA) that are being considered through the IIS process.
The Advisory Committee first reviewed the major findings of each PMA feasibility study. They are now evaluating various combinations of PMAs (portfolios) to be included in the IIS. The Advisory Committee is expected to make recommendations on IIS PMA portfolios to the SVBGSA Board in August.
At the same time, SVBGSA is conducting periodic evaluations of its six Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSP) and preparing amendments to the GSPs with updated information, improved understanding of groundwater conditions, and further analysis of PMA. A 90-day public comment period on the Groundwater Sustainability Plan Amendments for each of the six subbasins will occur later this year. This is an opportunity for the SVBGSA Board to hear feedback from residents, business owners, farmers and other stakeholders in the Salinas Valley.
This recent Monterey County Weekly article about groundwater management explores the critical decisions on tap this year for SVBGSA and the Salinas Valley.