The implementation of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) has presented some challenges, however it appears the overall process is progressing smoothly overall. Supervising Engineering Geologist with the Department of Water Resources (Department), Steven Springhorn noted that the stakeholders have been diligent in adhering to the timeline established by the regulation.
“In general, the status of SGMA is going well,” said Springhorn. “That was really shown by the first major milestone, the GSA formation deadline. Roughly 99 percent of the area that had to be covered, was covered. So that just built a lot of momentum.”
The next step in the implementation process is the development of Groundwater Sustainability Plans. Springhorn noted that there are close to 150 different plans that are being developed in some form. “Those plans in the critically over drafted basins are further along because they are first up for submittal in January 31, 2020. So, I would say that the local agencies they are doing a great job and the Department and the State Water Resources Control Board are trying to support in the best way we can,” said Springhorn.
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