HomeMy WebLinkAbout2.11.21 Board Packet UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
NOTICE OF MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability
Agency (“Agency”) Board of Directors (“Board”) will hold its regular Board Meeting at:
1:30 P.M. - Thursday, February 11, 2021
Zoom Link: https://mendocinocounty.zoom.us/j/87395151219
Meeting ID: 873 9515 1219
Phone: +1 669 900 9128
Due to COVID-19 the UVBGSA Board meetings will be conducted virtually and not available for in person
public participation (pursuant to State Executive Order N 29 20).
The public may participate digitally in meetings by sending comments to uvbgsa@mendocinocounty.org
or by clicking the link above to join the Zoom meeting, in lieu of personal attendance.
All email comment must be received by 8:00 A.M. the morning of the meeting in order to be published
online prior to the meeting.
AGENDA
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ACTION ITEMS
a. Discussion and Possible Appointment Of Agricultural
Stakeholder Director and Alternate Director Seat
The Board shall review the Agricultural Seat nominations submitted by the
Mendocino County Farm Bureau for appointment consideration.
b. Discussion and Possible Appointment Of Tribal Stakeholder
Director
The Board shall review the Tribal Stakeholder nomination by the six (6)
Tribes within the Ukiah Valley to confirm their appointment.
c. Discussion and Possible Appointment of Officers Including
Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, and any Other Officers as
Determined Necessary by the Board of Directors
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
The Board shall appoint the following officers: Chair, Vice-Chair and
Secretary.
d. Discussion and Possible Approval of Minutes from the
November 12, 2020, Regular Meeting
e. Discussion and Possible Action to Approve Land Access
Agreements for Building the Monitoring Network in the Ukiah
Valley Basin
The Board will review the two land access agreements for access to wells
located on real property owned by the Mendocino Wine Company and
Millview County Water District. These wells will build out the Monitoring
Network being incorporated into the GSP.
f. Discussion and Possible Action to Approve the Updated Ukiah
Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Communication and Engagement Plan
The Board will review the updated Communication and Engagement Plan
developed to promote the efficient and effective coordination of
internal/external communications and stakeholder engagement in the
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA) effort
to develop a Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) and reflects the new
communication protocol adapted during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.
g. Presentation, Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the
Development of Components of the Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Plan
The Board will receive an update and presentation from Larry Walker and
Associates regarding components of the Ukiah Valley Groundwater
Sustainability Plan including Technical Advisory Committee
recommendations, draft GSP Chapter rollout schedule, monitoring
network updates and development of Project and Management Actions
and Sustainable Management Criteria.
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4363 fax (707)463-5474
4. STAFF UPDATES
5. DIRECTOR REPORTS
6. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
The Board will receive public comments on items not appearing on the agenda
and within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Agency. The Board will not enter
into a detailed discussion or take any action on any items presented during public
comments. Such items may only be referred to staff for administrative action or
scheduled on a subsequent agenda for discussion. Persons wishing to speak on
specific agenda items should do so at the time specified for those items. The
presiding Chair shall limit public comments to three minutes.
7. ADJOURNMENT
The Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency complies with ADA requirements and upon
request, will attempt to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities by making meeting material
available in appropriate alternative formats (pursuant to Government Code Section 54953.2). Anyone
requiring reasonable accommodation to participate in the meeting should contact the Mendocino County
Department of Transportation by calling (707) 463-4363 at least 5 days prior to the meeting.
Please reference the Mendocino County website to obtain additional information for the Ukiah Valley
Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency: http://www.mendocinocounty.org/uvbgsa
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Item No.:
Date:
To:
Subject:
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
Article 7.1.2.(a) of the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) requires One (1) Agricultural Stakeholder
Director. The Agricultural Stakeholder Director shall meet the following criteria, determined at
the sole discretion of the Board Members: (1) be a resident of Mendocino County; (2.a) own/
lease real property in active commercial agricultural production overlying the Basin or (2.b) be
an employee of a commercial agricultural production operation overlying the basin involved
with water use decisions and (3) extract groundwater from the Basin for the irrigation/frost
protection of at least fifteen (15) acres of agricultural crops in commercial operation. The
Agricultural Stakeholder may not be a party to any pending litigation against the Agency or any
of its Members.
Recommended Action:
1. Review the nominees submitted by the Mendocino County Farm Bureau and appoint the
Agricultural Stakeholder Director and Alternate Director to the Board.
Background:
The Farm Bureau nominates:
Stakeholder Director: Zachary Robinson
Alternate Stakeholder Director: Levi Paulin
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Fiscal Summary: No fiscal impact.
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Item No.:
Date:
To:
Subject:
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
Article 7 of the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) provides that one stakeholder director shall be a
representative of tribal stakeholders and interest with the Basin. One Tribal Stakeholder
Director shall be appointed by the six tribes exercising jurisdiction over Indian lands within the
Ukiah Valley Basin identified as Redwood Valley Rancheria, Coyote Valley Reservation,
Pinoleville Pomo Nation, Potter Valley Rancheria, Guidiville Rancheria and the Hopland
Reservation.
Section 7.3.2 (b) of the JPA provides that the Board of Directors confirm the nomination for the
Tribal Stakeholder Director submitted by the six Tribes within the Ukiah Valley. The Member
Directors shall confirm the nominee at a regular meeting and shall appoint the Tribal
Stakeholder Director upon simple majority vote of all Member Directors.
Recommended Action:
1. Review the nominees submitted by the six Tribes within the Ukiah Valley and confirm
appointment of the Tribal Stakeholder Director and Alternate Director to the Board.
Background:
In 2019, the six Tribes of the Ukiah Valley Basin nominated Brandi Brown, Redwood Valley
Tribal Treasurer as Tribal Stakeholder Director and Sonny Elliott Jr., Hopland Reservation as
Alternate Stakeholder Director for a two year term representing Tribal interests on the UVBGSA
Board and TAC.
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Fiscal Summary: No fiscal impact.
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Item No.:
Date:
To:
Subject:
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
Article 10 of the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVB) Joint Powers
Agreement (JPA) provides for the appointment of Officers. The Board shall appoint a
Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, and any other officers as determined necessary by the
Board of Directors. The term is for 2 years and an Officer may serve for multiple consecutive
terms.
Recommended Action:
Elect Chair, Vice-Chair and Secretary from the Board of Directors.
Background:
Article 10 of the JPA requires the following:
10.1. Officers. The Board of Directors shall select a Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, and
any other officers as determined necessary by the Board of Directors.
10.1.1. The Chairman shall preside at all Board Meetings.
10.1.2. The Vice-Chairman shall act in place of the Chairman at meetings should the Chairman
be absent.
10.1.3. The Secretary shall keep minutes of all meetings of the Board of Directors and shall, as
soon as possible after each meeting, forward a copy of the minutes to each member and
alternate of the Board of Directors.
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
10.1.4. All Officers shall be chosen at the first Board of Directors meeting and serve a term for
two (2) years. An Officer may serve for multiple consecutive terms. Any Officer may resign at
any time upon written notice to the Agency.
Fiscal Summary: No fiscal impact.
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Item No.:
Date:
To:
Subject:
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
Approval of Minutes from the November 12th, 2020, Regular Meeting.
Recommended Action:
Approve the November 12th, 2020, regular meeting minutes.
Background:
The Agency convened on November 12th, 2020.
Fiscal Summary:
N/A
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
501 Low Gap Rd., Rm. 1010 Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4441 fax (707)463-7237
NOTICE OF MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability
Agency (“Agency”) Board of Directors (“Board”) will hold its regular Board Meeting at:
1:30 P.M. - Thursday, November 12th, 2020
Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Chambers,
501 Low Gap Road, Room 1070, CA 95482
ACTION MINUTES
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL (1:34 P.M)
Present: Director Carre Brown, Director Alfred White, Director Zachary Robinson, Director
Douglas Crane
Absent: Director Richard Mack, Director Brandi Brown.
Public Attendees: Lucia Parmenter, Robert Parmenter, Lana Cohen, Chris Watt,
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by: Director Robinson
3. CONSENT ITEMS
a. Approval of Minutes from the September 10th, 2020 Meeting
Presenter/s: Chair Brown.
Public Comment: None.
Board Action: Upon motion by Director White, seconded by Director Crane, and carried
(11/12/2020); IT IS ORDERED that the minutes with corrections from the September 10th, 2020,
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency are hereby approved .
4. STAFF UPDATES
a. Appointment Period of UVBGSA Members for 2021/22
b. Data Sharing Reminder
Presenter/s: Ms. Sarah Dukett, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mendocino County .
Public Comment: None
Board Action: None
5. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
Presenter/s: Chair Brown
Public Comment: Ms. Lucia Parmenter, Redwood Valley Resident.
Board Action: None.
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
501 Low Gap Rd., Rm. 1010 Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4441 fax (707)463-7237
6. ACTION ITEMS
a. Discussion and Possible Action Including Adoption of the 2021
Board of Directors Master Meeting Calendar
Presenter/s: Ms. Sarah Dukett, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mendocino County .
Public Comment: None.
The Board received an update and recommendation on the 2021 Board Meeting
Calendar.
Board Action: Upon motion by Director Robinson and Seconded by Director White the
Calendar is Adopted and Approved.
Absent: Director Mack and Director Brown.
b. Update on Outreach and Working Group Meetings
Presenter/s: Ms. Laura Foglia, Senior Engineer, Larry Walker Associates,
Ms. Sarah Dukett, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mendocino County.
Public Comment: None.
The Board received an update regarding the public, tribal, and working group meetings
that were held in the last three months.
Board Action: None.
c. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Updates to the
Monitoring Network
Presenter/s: Ms. Laura Foglia, Senior Engineer, Larry Walker Associates.
Public Comment: Ms. Lucia Parmenter, Redwood Valley Resident.
The Board received an update on the progress on instrumentation of existing wells,
installation timeline for new stream gages, and Technical Support Services as well as
requirements of the GSP Monitoring Networks.
Board Action: None.
d. Discussion Regarding the Development of Groundwater
Sustainability Plan (GSP) Chapters and Upcoming
Opportunities for Review
Presenter/s: Ms. Laura Foglia, Senior Engineer, Larry Walker Associates; Mr. Amir Mani,
Larry Walker Associates;
Public Comment: None
The Board received an update on the progress of GSP Chapter 2 edits as well as a timeline
of development of additional chapters and the upcoming opportunities for review by the
Board, Technical Advisory Committee and the public.
Board Action: None.
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
501 Low Gap Rd., Rm. 1010 Ukiah California 95482 (707)463-4441 fax (707)463-7237
e. Presentation and Discussion Regarding the Future Scenarios
and Collaboration with Sonoma Water
Presenter/s: Ms. Laura Foglia, Senior Engineer, Larry Walker Associates; Mr. Amir Mani,
Larry Walker Associates;
Public Comment: Director Robinson, Director White.
The Board received an update and recommendations from Larry Walker and Associates
on the current future scenario under development for the GSP as well as a summary of
responses from the Future Scenarios Survey.
Board Action: Instructed Staff to identify and focus the scope of each of the Future
Scenarios to develop a long term budget and funding strategy for UVBGSA operations.
7. DIRECTOR REPORTS
Presenter/s: Chair Brown .
Public Comment: None.
8. ADJOURNMENT (3:08 P.M.)
________________________________
CARRE BROWN, Chair
Attest: BRANDI BROWN
Secretary
________________________________
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Item No.:
Date:
To:
Subject:
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
The Board will review the two land access agreements for access to wells located on real
property owned by the Mendocino Wine Company and Millview County Water District. These
wells will build out the Monitoring Network being incorporated into the GSP.
Recommended Action:
Accept and Sign the Land Access Agreements.
Background:
Due to a scarcity of long term monitoring data in the Ukiah Valley Basin, the UVBGSA is
creating a monitoring network by signing agreements with landowners and water purveyors in
the Basin to monitor ground water levels and water quality through their wells for the 20 year
duration of the GSP.
Fiscal Summary: N/A
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
By:-------------
Chair, Board of Directors
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Date: ___________ _
Landowner �-
By:� /lhW
Name: Chase Thornhill
APPROVED AS TO LEGAL FORM:
Christian Curtis, County Counsel
01/05/2021by:
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Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Item No.:
Date:
To:
Subject:
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
The Board will review the updated Communication and Engagement Plan developed to promote
the efficient and effective coordination of internal/external communications and stakeholder
engagement in the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA) effort to
develop a Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) and reflects the new communication
protocol adapted during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.
Recommended Action:
Adopt the Updated Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency Communication and
Engagement Plan.
Background:
Due to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis the currently adopted Communication and Engagement Plan
needed revision as many of the public engagement activities as approved were not appropriate.
A plan is a required deliverable for the GSP and Department of Water Resources Proposition 1
grant.
Fiscal Summary: N/A
Action: ___________________________________________________
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1
U k i a h V a l l e y B a s i n G r o u n d w a t e r S u s t a i n a b i l i t y
A g e n c y
Communication and Engagement
Plan
Prepared by:
LARRY WALKER ASSOCIATES
GEI CONSULTANTS
SCI CONSULTING GROUP
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
GSP Communications Plan
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 3
Project Organization .................................................................................................................... 4
Consultant Team ......................................................................................................................... 4
Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) ...................................................................................... 4
Department of Water REsources (DWR) Point of Contact ........................................................ 5
Goals and Desired Outcomes ....................................................................................................... 7
UVBGSA and UVB GSP ........................................................................................................... 7
UVBGSA Decision-Making Process ........................................................................................ 10
Communication objectives to support the GSP ........................................................................ 11
Overriding concerns, major concerns or challenges ................................................................. 11
Stakeholders Involved in the Project ........................................................................................ 12
Methods for Promoting Active Stakeholder Involvement ........................................................ 14
Use of Public Input and Response ............................................................................................ 14
Communications Strategy .......................................................................................................... 15
Internal Communication ........................................................................................................... 15
External Communication .......................................................................................................... 16
Public Meetings .................................................................................................................... 16
Stakeholder Survey and Mapping ......................................................................................... 18
Venues for Engaging............................................................................................................. 18
C&E Implementation Timeline................................................................................................. 19
Evaluation and Assessment ........................................................................................................ 20
Appendix A. GSP Development Schedule .................................................................................. 1
Appendix B. GSP Register of Attendees at all Public Meeting................................................. 2
GSP Communications Plan
Table of Figures
Figure 1. DWR Point of Contacts ................................................................................................... 6
Figure 2. UVBGSA JPA members and their respective boundaries. ............................................. 9
Figure 3. General review process of deliverables. ........................................................................ 10
Figure 4. C&E implementation timeline. ...................................................................................... 19
Appendices
Appendix A. GSP Development Schedule ..................................................................................... 1
Appendix B. GSP Register of Attendees at all Public Meeting ...................................................... 2
GSP Communications Plan
Page 3
Introduction
This Project Communication Plan (CommPlan) is developed to promote the efficient and
effective coordination of internal/external communications and stakeholder engagement in the
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA) effort to develop a
Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP). The CommPlan will serve as the primary guideline for
addressing the requirements outlined in Department of Water Resources (DWR) Groundwater
Sustainability Plans (GSP) Regulations Section § 354.10:
“Each Plan shall include a summary of information relating to notification and communication
by the Agency with other agencies and interested parties including the following:
(a) A description of the beneficial uses and users of groundwater in the basin, including the land
uses and property interests potentially affected by the use of groundwater in the basin, the types
of parties representing those interests, and the nature of consultation with those parties.
(b) A list of public meetings at which the Plan was discussed or considered by the Agency.
(c) Comments regarding the Plan received by the Agency and a summary of any responses by the
Agency.
(d) A communication section of the Plan that includes the following:
(1) An explanation of the Agency’s decision-making process.
(2) Identification of opportunities for public engagement and a discussion of how public
input and response will be used.
(3) A description of how the Agency encourages the active involvement of diverse social,
cultural, and economic elements of the population within the basin.
(4) The method the Agency shall follow to inform the public about progress implementing
the Plan, including the status of projects and actions.”
The CommPlan serves as the communication and engagement plan for the Ukiah Valley Basin
(UVB) GSP and is developed in response to the following requirement of the DWR evaluation
criterion in GSP Regulations Section § 355.4.b.(4):
“Whether the interests of the beneficial uses and users of groundwater in the basin, and the land
uses and property interests potentially affected by the use of groundwater in the basin, have been
considered.”
The CommPlan will be updated as needed throughout the project term. This will ensure that up-
to-date information related to project communication is contained in the CommPlan. The
CommPlan will be executed by members of the UVBGSA through the lifetime of the GSP. The
UVBGSA will communicate GSP updates through the UVBGSA page on the County of
Mendocino website, the County of Mendocino social media channels and periodic public
meetings. This CommPlan will serve as a repository for all mailing lists, outreach and
engagement activities and stakeholder communications.
GSP Communications Plan
Page 4
Project Organization
The Ukiah Valley Basin GSP is being developed for the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater
Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA). Larry Walker Associates, Inc. in collaboration with GEI
Consultants, University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE), and SCI Consulting Group
(LWA Team) are responsible for the development of the GSP at the direction of the UVBGSA.
The UVBGSA Board of Directors (the Board) is shown in Table 1. The Board acts as the GSP’s
overall Project Management Team (PMT) and is scheduled to meet on the second Thursday of
every month at 1:30 PM in the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Chambers. All meetings
are open to the public with notices, agendas, and minutes posted on Mendocino County’s
(County) website1.
Public engagement is encouraged at the Board’s meetings and an e-Notification2 capability will
be offered by the County to reinforce this purpose for interested parties. Draft deliverables, draft
GSP chapters and other important development milestones are scheduled to be discussed at the
scheduled Board meetings in order to promote transparency regarding the decision-making
process.
Table 1. UVBGSA Board of Directors.
County of Mendocino Glenn McGourty Maureen Mulhern
City of Ukiah Douglas F. Crane
Russian River Flood Control Alfred White John Reardan
Upper Russian River Water Agency James Green Ken Todd
Tribal Seat Vacant
Agricultural Seat Zachary Robinson Levi Paulin
CONSULTANT TEAM
As mentioned above, the consultant team is led by Larry Walker Associates, Inc. in collaboration
with GEI Consultants, UCCE, and SCI Consulting Group. Dr. Laura Foglia, LWA Project
Manager (PM), will serve as the primary point of contact for the LWA Team, providing clear,
consistent, and effective communication with the PMT and the County.
TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)
UVBGSA has convened a TAC to provide input and recommendations on the technical aspects
of the GSP development process. TAC members and the represented agencies are shown in
Table 2. TAC meetings are scheduled at a similar frequency to the Board’s meetings, on the
second Wednesday of every month, at 1:00 PM. All meetings are open to the public with notices,
1 https://www.mendocinocounty.org/government/affiliated-agencies/ukiah-valley-basin-gsa
2 https://www.mendocinocounty.org/community/enotification
GSP Communications Plan
Page 5
agendas, and minutes posted on Mendocino County’s (County) website3. Subscribers to the e-
notification system will be notified automatically for the TAC meetings.
Table 2. UVB TAC members.
County of Mendocino James Linderman
City of Ukiah Sean White
Upper Russian River Water Agency Ken Todd
Russian River Flood Control Elizabeth Salomone
Sonoma County Water Agency Don Seymour
Mendocino County Resource Conservation District Mike Webster
California Land Stewardship Institute Laurel Marcus
Tribal Representative Javier Silva
Agricultural Representative Levi Paulin
DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES (DWR) POINT OF CONTACT
All high and medium priority groundwater basins in California are assigned a Point of Contact
(POC) from the DWR Region Offices. POCs assist GSAs and stakeholders in the basin to
connect with the statewide Sustainable Groundwater Management Program and to locate
resources for assistance. Mr. Dominic Gutierrez from the Division of Integrated Regional Water
Management of the DWR North Central Region Office is the POC for this GSP and can be
reached via email at: Dominic.Gutierrez@water.ca.gov. POC information for the Regional
Office corresponding to the UVB GSP is shown below in Figure 1.
3 https://www.mendocinocounty.org/government/affiliated-agencies/ukiah-valley-basin-gsa/technical-advisory-
committee/tac-agenda-and-materials
GSP Communications Plan
Page 6
Figure 1. DWR Point of Contacts
GSP Communications Plan
Page 7
Goals and Desired Outcomes
In August 2014, the California Legislature passed the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act
(SGMA), which went into effect January 1, 2015. SGMA, a package of three bills (AB 1739
Dickinson, SB 1168 Pavley, and SB 1319 Pavley), requires the long-term and sustainable
management of groundwater resources and places this responsibility on local authorities.
Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) were required to be formed by June 30, 2017 as
the responsible authorities for developing GSPs and achieving SGMA’s implementation goals
and mandates.
The key objective of the Ukiah Valley Basin GSP will be to address groundwater sustainability
by designing strategies that avoid and prevent undesirable results to regional groundwater
resources over the next 20 years, and beyond. Because SGMA requires local stakeholders and
beneficial users to be part of the GSP planning and implementation process, the UVBGSA will
identify and engage stakeholders to integrate their input into the decision-making, coordination,
and management processes. Specific processes are not outlined for the consideration of these
interests in the legislation and it is upon the UVBGSA to define such processes. However,
SGMA specifically requires public meetings to be held during the GSP development and
implementation when:
• When the GSA intends to adopt or amend a GSP (CA Water Code Section § 10728.4);
• Prior the GSA imposing or increasing a fee (CA Water Code Section § 10730.(b)(1))
In order to meet these requirements, UVBGSA is implementing an adaptive management
strategy as explained in detail in the sections below. This strategy contains three phases: (1)
planning, (2) implementation, and (3) evaluation/response, and is intended to work
fundamentally as described in the Community Water Center whitepaper4 on this topic. For the
planning phase, this CommPlan will serve as the document for communication and engagement
in the GSP development and will be updated as necessary. For the implementation phase, the
methods and strategies to be used are described in the Communications Strategy Section.
Finally, for the third phase, the Evaluation and Assessment Section identifies questions to
assess the effectiveness of the C&E plan and to deliver effective and comprehensive responses.
UVBGSA AND UVB GSP
In May 2017, UVBGSA was created to by a Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) to serve as the
official GSA for the UVB to comply with SGMA. Under the agreement, the UVBGSA shall take
actions deemed necessary to ensure sustainable management of the UVB, as required by
SGMA5.
The UVBGSA consists of a variety of local public agencies with water supply, water
management and land use responsibilities. These include the County of Mendocino, the City of
4 Dobbin, K., Clary, J., Firestone, L., Christian-Smit, J. (2015), “Collaborating for Success: Stakeholder Engagement
for Sustainable Groundwater Management Act Implementation.” Prepared by community water center.
5 Resolution of the election of the UVBGSA can be found here:
https://sgma.water.ca.gov/portal/service/gsadocument/download/3980
JPA forming the UVBGSA can be found here:
https://sgma.water.ca.gov/portal/service/gsadocument/download/4159
GSP Communications Plan
Page 8
Ukiah, the Upper Russian River Water Agency, and the Russian River Flood Control and Water
Conservation and Improvement District. The boundaries of these agencies are shown in Error!
Reference source not found.. The County of Mendocino exercises land use authority on the land
overlying the basin. The City of Ukiah is a local municipality that exercises water supply, water
management and land use authority within the City’s boundaries. The Upper Russian River
Water Agency is a JPA representing Millview County Water District, Willow County Water
District, Calpella County Water District, and Redwood Valley Water District. The County Water
Districts have water supply and water management responsibilities within the UVB. The Russian
River Flood Control and Water Conservation and Improvement District is a special district
created by State statute (State of California Statute, Act 4830). The District exercises water
supply and water management authority within the UVB.
The UVBGSA Board also includes a tribal representative and an agricultural representative, as
noted in Table 1. Representation by these stakeholder groups on the Board of Directors was a
decision made by the members of the JPA.
In accordance with SGMA priorities established by DWR, the UVBGSA must develop and
submit its GSP by January 31, 2022; the plan must include actions to maintain or achieve
sustainability within twenty years of the GSP’s adoption. The information contained in the GSP
will comprehensively characterize the conditions in the UVB, determine strategies for
sustainably managing groundwater resources, satisfy the requirements of SGMA, be consistent
with Emergency Regulations and guidance prepared by DWR, be implementable by stakeholders
of the UVB, and describe monitoring and reporting to DWR. Moreover, in order to reach the best
outcome for the GSA and local stakeholders, and to satisfy SGMA requirements, all beneficial
uses and the interests of beneficial users of groundwater must be considered through the active
involvement of local stakeholders.
GSP Communications Plan
Page 9
Figure 2. UVBGSA JPA members and their respective boundaries.
GSP Communications Plan
Page 10
UVBGSA DECISION-MAKING PROCESS
The general voting procedure of the UVBGSA is outlined in the JPA. Each member of the Board
has one vote. Unless otherwise specified, all affirmative decisions of the Board require the
affirmative vote of a simple majority of all the Board’s Directors participating in voting,
provided that, if a Director is disqualified from voting on a matter before the Board because of a
conflict of interest, that Director shall be excluded from the calculation of the total number of
Directors that constitute a majority. The Board of Directors shall strive for consensus of all
members on all items.
With respect to GSP development, the above-mentioned procedure will be used for all subjects
that require Board’s action. Since the beginning of this GSP development, discussions and/or
presentations have been conducted in the TAC and Board public meetings to facilitate input from
stakeholders and interested parties. Key documents have been made available in advance of
meeting on either the County’s website or via the C&E Tool, whichever was determined
appropriate, as a working draft document. Comments made by the TAC, the Board, or by the
public have been addressed in a reasonable timeline (if possible, by the next public meeting) and
the final draft of the deliverable has been presented and an action taken by the Board in the next
scheduled meeting. During all public meetings, time-limited opportunities have been offered to
the public to comment on all public agenda items. In addition, an opportunity for public
comment on items not on the agenda was provided.
The LWA Team, the Board, and the TAC have come up with a preferred method of
communication with regards to GSP deliverables and additional matters that need the Board’s
approval and/or the TAC’s involvement and direction. As a soft arrangement, meaning the
timeline can be adjusted respective to the task in hand, the LWA Team will provide a month for
the TAC to review a document or elaborate on a subject that is scheduled to be acted upon in the
upcoming meeting. GSA Board will be provided with at least two weeks advance time before an
official review/presentation of a document for approval at a Board meeting. As explained, all
efforts will be made so that discussions and/or presentations are conducted in the TAC and
Board public meetings to facilitate input from stakeholders and interested parties. In addition,
key documents will be available in advance on County’s website, whichever appropriate, as a
working draft document. Comments made by the TAC, the Board, or by the public will be
addressed in a reasonable timeline (if possible up to the next public meeting) and the final draft
of the deliverable will be presented and action taken by the Board in the next scheduled meeting.
This procedure is illustrated in Figure 3.
During all public meetings, time constrained opportunities will be offered for the public to
comment on all public agenda items. In addition, an opportunity for public comment on items
not on the agenda will be provided.
Figure 3. General review process of deliverables.
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COMMUNICATION OBJECTIVES TO SUPPORT THE GSP
The UVBGSA will strive to build broad support for key elements of the GSP and will facilitate
the effective engagement of stakeholders and beneficial users of groundwater to achieve the best
outcome for its GSP. The following are the guiding principles of the GSP communication
strategy:
Inform the public with balanced information to assist them in understanding the issues
to be addressed, alternative management measures, opportunities, and/or solutions.
Consult with the public by obtaining feedback and public comments on analyses and
decisions. UVBGSA will encourage the public to be involved in the decision-making
process since they are affected by the GSP and can influence the outcome.
Involve beneficial users and work with them throughout the process to ensure that their
concerns, aspirations, and their overall input is understood and considered.
Collaborate with stakeholders in the decision-making process including the
development of management alternatives and identification of preferred solutions.
Empower the members of the GSA by fully considering their priorities and sufficiently
implementing them in the GSP.
Inform all engaged on how their input affected the decision.
Ensure process integrity and transparency.
Utilize facilitation and outreach methods that minimize the cost and environmental
impacts of travel.
Leverage available technological platforms to increase collaboration and efficiency.
Maintain appropriate alignment between engagement, content development, and project
management.
Details of the methods and strategies used to accomplish these objectives are laid out in the
following sections.
OVERRIDING CONCERNS, MAJOR CONCERNS OR CHALLENGES
A challenge in developing and implementing the GSP is the time constraint that may limit the
capability to build relationships and underlying trust between all sectors of the public involved
and/or affected by the GSP. UVBGSA made the necessary efforts through several public
meetings, adequate outreach and notices, and involving major beneficial users in its board of
directors during the formation of the GSA. The GSP development process brings about new
challenges that will need broader involvement and trust to be established. Conflicting interests on
the use of the shared resources may arise that can only be resolved through an effective decision-
making process. It is also possible that needs and interests of particular stakeholders may change
throughout the development process, complicating the dynamics of the planning process. The
CommPlan and its thorough implementation will assist the UVBGSA in overcoming these types
of challenges.
In addition, public outreach and stakeholder engagement takes time and resources to be done
well. This can become a significant challenge since both the time and the resources available to
the UVBGSA are limited. However, the Board believes that its planned strategies and venues of
engagement will enable its communication and engagement efforts to be effective. The Board is
confident that a balanced and effective investment in effective communication and engagement
GSP Communications Plan
Page 12
will lead to improved outcomes, optimized resources, broad support, and reduced conflicts,
which subsequently outweighs its respective cost.
Stakeholders Involved in the Project
SGMA (CA Water Code Section § 10723.2) and GSP Regulations Section § 354.10.(a)
collectively require the UVBGSA to consider interests of all beneficial uses and users of
groundwater basin and provide a description of those users and uses, the types of parties
representing those interests, and the nature of consultation with those parties. Table 3
summarizes the list of stakeholders identified by the UVBGSA. This list will be updated as
necessary.
Table 3. Identified stakeholders and interested parties for the UVB.
Land Use County of Mendocino Glenn McGourty
Land Use/Urban Use City of Ukiah Douglas F. Crane
Integrated Water Management Russian River Flood Control Alfred White
Urban Use Upper Russian River Water
Agency James Green
California Native American tribes Tribal Seat Vacant
Agricultural Use/ Private Users Agricultural Seat Zachary Robinson
Land Use County of Mendocino James Linderman
Land Use/Urban Use City of Ukiah Sean White
Urban Use Upper Russian River Water
Agency Ken Todd
Integrated Water Management Russian River Flood Control Elizabeth Salomone
Land Use Sonoma County Water
Agency Don Seymour
Urban/ Agricultural Use
Mendocino County
Resource Conservation
District
Mike Webster
General Public/Land Use California Land Stewardship
Institute Laurel Marcus
California Native American tribes Tribal Representative Javier Silva
Agricultural Use/ Private Users Agricultural Representative Levi Paulin
Urban Use
Redwood Valley County
Water District
Millview County Water
District
GSP Communications Plan
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Willow County Water District
Calpella County Water
District
Urban Use
City of 10,000 Buddha’s
Rogina Water Company
Yokayo Water Systems
California Native American tribes
Redwood Valley Rancheria
Tribal Representative on
UVBGSA and the TAC
Coyote Valley Reservation
Pinoleville Pomo Nation
Potter Valley Rancheria
Guidiville Rancheria
Hopland Reservation
Agricultural Use
Mendocino County Farm
Bureau Devon Jones
Mendocino County Wine
Growers Association Agricultural Representative
on UVBGSA and the TAC Pear Growers
Cannabis Cultivation
Environmental and Ecosystem UC Davis Cooperative
Extension
State Lands Department of Water
Resources (DWR)
State Lands/Environmental and
Ecosystem
North Coast Regional Water
Quality Control Board
State Lands/Environmental and
Ecosystem
California Department of
Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)
Federal Lands/Environmental and
Ecosystem/Integrated Water Management
US Army Corps of
Engineers
Federal Lands/Environmental and
Ecosystem
US Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS)
Environmental and Ecosystem NOAA Fisheries
Environmental and Ecosystem Forest Service
General Public Public
GSP Communications Plan
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Disadvantaged
Communities
Citizen Groups
METHODS FOR PROMOTING ACTIVE STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT
As UVBGSA moves towards developing its GSP, it will initially focus on stakeholder
identification and assessment. The LWA Team will conduct stakeholder interviews at the outset
of the planning effort to understand the interests, concerns, opportunities, and resources that exist
in the stakeholder community. During the GSP development process, the Board will evolve its
outreach efforts by identifying additional stakeholders, understanding their interests and
concerns, and providing a transparent and responsive communication venue for their
engagement. This will happen through the following approach:
• Develop and maintain an updated interested parties’ list through UVBGSA stakeholder
identification and outreach, voluntary subscription, and e-notification system.
• Conduct interviews with key stakeholders at the outset of the GSP planning effort.
• Hold regular public meetings of the UVBGSA Board and the TAC, encouraging public
participation through County website. Convene a collaborative decision-making process
through public meetings with the goal of building a shared understanding and reducing
conflicts. This will provide an additional venue for interested parties to get involved in
the more technical side of development and implementation of GSP.
• Provide alternative opportunities for stakeholders or interested parties that face more
barriers to participation such as holding interviews with the LWA Team, translated
materials, evening meetings, etc.
• Use the UVBGSA website to provide increased access to data and information in a user-
friendly form. Provide emails/newsletters to interested parties updating them on newly
developed documents or information and seeking their participation and/or comments.
Methods outlined above will help UVBGSA conduct the implementation phase of its adaptive
management strategy.
USE OF PUBLIC INPUT AND RESPONSE
The Board’s success in implementing their adaptive management strategy will depend, in part,
on how it responds to public input. Moreover, a recognizable employment of the public input
boosts engagement and increases the trust in the process and plan. The UVBGSA will respond to
constructive public comments and concerns and demonstrate how they shaped the outcome at
hand. Efforts will include:
• Making draft deliverables provided for the TAC or the UVBGSA review available to the
public to materialize a more fruitful public discussion during the public meetings
scheduled for deciding on those deliverables.
• Publishing Board-approved draft final GSP Chapters for public comment with reasonable
commenting periods. If necessary, responses to comments will be published to elaborate
on how they were implemented or considered in revising the documents.
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• Continued implementation of the methods for promoting active engagement of the public
with a focus on obtaining comments and responding to concerns.
At key C&E milestones described in the C&E Implementation Timeline Section, UVBGSA
evaluated the effectiveness of its communication strategy by answering the following questions:
• Is there a shared understanding of the GSP’s goals and its implementation timeline?
• Are stakeholders educated about the GSP development process and their own role?
• Has the GSA received positive press coverage?
• Do diverse stakeholders feel included?
• Has there been behavioral changes related to the program goals? Or, is improved
trust/relationships in evidence among participants?
• Has the CommPlan been implemented and updated?
• Has the interested parties’ list been expanded?
• Have there been well-attended and robust public hearings at all of the necessary
junctures?
• Are all established venues for stakeholders open and effective?
• Are there formal mechanisms to assess outcomes and make improvements?
Reviewing these results helped identify the strengths and weaknesses of the communication
strategy and how to improve it.
Communications Strategy
As explained in the previous sections, UVBGSA will use a multitude of communication methods
to convey information and obtain input from stakeholders. The applicability of each method will
depend on the goal of the intended communication. As a general rule of thumb, the
communication strategy is divided into external and internal communications as explained
below. UVBGSA will implement a comprehensive communication and engagement plan that
meets SGMA requirements and will try to optimize its strategies in external and internal
communications to maximize the end benefits.
INTERNAL COMMUNICATION
Internal communication is defined as any communication between and among the UVBGSA
Board members, Mendocino County, the TAC or other convened committees, and the LWA
Team that is necessary to keep the planning effort moving forward and to execute the scope of
services articulated in the contract with the LWA Team. The Board, County, and the TAC will
convey internal communications among their own members or with each other using their
preferred methods such as emails, phone conversations, etc., consistent with applicable
regulatory requirements. If a meeting is arranged between any combination of the three, notes
will be taken and kept on record by an assigned member of the participants. The LWA Team will
take and keep notes of the meetings with the Board and the TAC. These notes will be made
available following the approval of the Board via the UVBGSA website. The LWA Team will
provide monthly progress reports to the Board.
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EXTERNAL COMMUNICATION
External communication is defined as any communication of the UVBGSA, the TAC, the LWA
Team, or any other committee with the public (which includes DWR POC). These
communications may occur through emails and newsletters, public meetings, mailed
flyers/brochures/advertisement, handouts, group interviews and radio broadcasts.
For all public meetings, including but not limited to regular Board and TAC meetings, agenda
for the meeting is posted online on the County website and subscribers to the e-notification
system are notified. An electronic flyer for the meeting is also included in the newsletter and
interested parties are notified through their preferred contact method. Meeting minutes are
recorded as the normal procedure of the Board and the TAC and will be posted afterwards on
County website. In addition, the LWA Team keeps record of all its communication with external
parties including group interviews. Those records will be available through appropriate
procedures if approved by the Board.
Online and web-based resources including the County website and County Social Media outlets
are regularly updated and utilized for informing the public of the project status, posting draft
GSP Chapters, publishing notices, receiving comments, demonstrating how public input is being
implemented, disclosing results and data, and sharing news and updates.
Public Meetings
All UVBGSA Board and TAC meetings are open to the public and designed to encourage input,
discussion, and questions from public audience members. The minutes of UVBGSA Board and
TAC meetings reflect the questions and comments raised by members and the general public.
Currently scheduled public meetings are shown in Table 4. This schedule is subject to change as
the GSP development process progresses and the GSP development schedule is updated
(Appendix A). Meetings with the UVBGSA Board and the TAC are multi-purpose venues for
public engagement and outreach. The LWA Team will provide progress reports at the meetings
unless directed otherwise by the Board; presentations for the Board members or the TAC may be
conducted to assist in the decision-making process or to provide for information to the public;
public comments regarding scheduled and non-scheduled items will be received; and, actions
will be taken and decisions will be made with regards to the GSP development and
implementation.
Table 4. UVBGSA important meeting dates for GSP development process.
13 September 2018 Introduction
Project Schedule
8 November 2018 Communication Plan and Data
Management Plan Needs Assessment
Data Gap Analysis
Monitoring Network Analysis
14 February 2019
Communication Plan
Data Management Plan
Data Gap Analysis
Monitoring Network Analysis
16 April 2019 Phase I Deliverables
GSP Communications Plan
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Data Acquisition & Confidentiality
Requirements
6 June 2019 Prop. 68 Solicitation Schedule Hydrogeologic Conceptual Model
TSS Application
15 October 2019 HCM Update Prop
68 Update TSS Update
DMS Draft Deliver Draft HCM
Commenting and Review Prop 68
Update, TSS Update
9 January 2020 Groundwater Model
Ch.2 GSP Update
Sustainable Management Criteria
Measurable Objectives, TSS
Update, TAC Meetings Moved to
day before Board Meets
12 March 2020
Sustainable Management Criteria
Measurable Objectives
Sustainable Goal Development Water
Quality SMC Survey Review
13 May 2020 Preliminary SW/GW SMC Historical
GW Elevation Trends
10 September 2020
Monitoring Network
Future Scenarios PVP Updates
SW GW Interaction Results
Water Budget WQ SMC Delivery
Future Scenarios Current and
Baseline Water Budget
Remote Monitoring Studies
14 October 2020
SMC Development GW Decline
and SW Depletion
Well Instrumentation
12 November 2020 SMC MT/MO Development
Model Results
13 January 2021 Model Results
ISW/GDE Discussions
11 February 2021 Draft SMC’s Approved SMC Discussion
11 March 2021 Final GSP Implementation Plan Draft GSP
Monitoring Network Finalized
8 April 2021 Final GSP Implementation Plan Draft GSP
13 May 2021 Final GSP Draft/ GSP Submittal Draft GSP
10 June 2021 Final GSP Draft/ GSP Submittal Draft GSP
Table 5. UVBGSA Public Meeting Dates
29 September 2020
Introduction of UVBGSA and GSP
Project Schedule, Implementation Plan, Schedule for Future Public Meetings
Venues for Engagement
23 February 2021 Draft GSP Public Comment
SMC and Potter Valley Project Presentation
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20 April 2021 Draft GSP Public Comment
25 May 2021 Draft GSP Public Comment
22 June 2021 Draft GSP Public Comment
If determined essential by the Board, additional public meetings may be scheduled to further
distribute the information to the public at specified locations and times. These meetings will be
appropriately advertised through the County website, emails and newsletters, interested party list
subscribers, and postal mail or flyers.
Stakeholder Survey and Mapping
At the outset of the GSP development effort, the LWA Team will convene meetings with
identified key stakeholders to gather important information using a survey form tailored to the
UVB GSP effort.
The LWA Team will contact representatives for the key stakeholder organizations to learn more
about them, describe the GSP development process, and will invite them to engage in the
process. Prior to these meetings. The LWA Team will develop background information, maps,
and a stakeholder survey form. Follow up communications may be made to answer questions
that come up or to better understand stakeholder interests, issues, and challenges.
After the stakeholder surveys are completed, the LWA team will compile the information
received in a “Lay of the Land” document. This document will summarize information received
from stakeholders regarding initial concerns/issues, interests, challenges, preferred methods of
communication, and desired level of engagement.
Venues for Engaging
To achieve the goals and objectives of the CommPlan, the UVBGSA will utilize multiple
outreach venues as wells as broader communication tools. This will allow stakeholder
engagement at different levels best suited to stakeholder needs. The Board will use these venues
to provide regular feedback and updates and to receive comments. Due to the ongoing COVID-
19 pandemic and in accordance with County and State health orders, these venues will be hosted
virtually until new incidences of COVID-19 are reduced to a safe level within the county and we
are able to return to in person meetings. These venues are discussed in previous sections and are
listed below:
- Public meetings of the Board and Advisory Committees: for all interested parties.
Advertised and announced through appropriate means such as email newsletters,
interested parties subscription lists, e-notification system, flyers and banners, etc.
- Stakeholder interviews and/or work group meetings
- Community or regional forums: conducted on as needed basis by the UVBGSA, the
LWA Team, or appropriate public agencies identified by the Board.
- Public workshops/briefings: Conducted if deemed necessary by the Board with the help
of the LWA Team, DWR, and/or other appropriate public agencies for information
sharing and receipt of input.
GSP Communications Plan
Page 19
- Digital venues: County website and Zoom Meetings will be used as the main online
resources for conducting and tracking engagement and outreach activities. Emails and
newsletters will be delivered to the interested parties’ list and subscribers. Available
social media outlets will be used as needed.
- Mailing services: provided on as needed basis and may include one or a combination of
informational brochures, advertisement, flyers, handouts, etc.
After the COVID-19 pandemic started, in accordance with County and State health orders, the
venues were hosted virtually until new incidences of COVID-19 were reduced to a safe level
within the county and people could return to in person meetings.
C&E IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE
Implementation of the C&E Plan (CommPlan) will follow the timeline shown in Error!
Reference source not found.. The implementation timeline is subject to periodic update and
change dependent on the status of the project and the GSP development schedule (Appendix A).
Figure 4. C&E implementation timeline.
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Page 20
Evaluation and Assessment
At key C&E milestones laid out in the C&E Implementation Timeline Section, the UVBGSA
will evaluate the effectiveness of its responses to the following questions:
• Is there a shared understanding of the GSP’s goals and its implementation timeline?
• Are stakeholders educated about the GSP development process and their own role?
• Has the GSA received positive press coverage?
• Do diverse stakeholders feel included?
• Has there been behavior changes related to the program goals? Or is improved
trust/relationships in evidence among participants?
• Has the CommPlan been implemented and updated?
• Has the interested parties’ list been expanded?
• Have there been well-attended and robust public hearings at all of the necessary
junctures?
• Are all established venues for stakeholders open and effective?
• Are there formal mechanisms to assess outcomes and make improvements?
Reviewing these results will help identify what worked well, what did not work as planned, and
to summarize lessons learned.
GSP Communications Plan
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Appendix A. GSP Development Schedule
GSP Communications Plan
Page 2
Appendix B. GSP Register of Attendees at all Public Meeting
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Item No.:
Date:
To:
Subject:
Consent Agenda Regular Agenda Noticed Public Hearing
Summary:
The Board will receive an update and presentation from Larry Walker and Associates regarding
components of the Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) including Technical
Advisory Committee recommendations, draft GSP Chapter rollout schedule, monitoring
network updates and development of Project and Management Actions and Sustainable
Management Criteria.
Recommended Action:
Provide direction to the staff regarding the development of the Ukiah Valley Groundwater
Sustainability Plan
Background:
Larry Walker and Associates are the lead consultants on the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater
Sustainability Plan. Larry Walker has presented review components for feedback and approval
to the Board consistently on updates to the GSP since their contract started in September 13,
2018.
Fiscal Summary: N/A
Action: ___________________________________________________
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Agenda Summary
Motion:_____________________ 2nd:__________________________
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Plan
Development Update
February 11, 2021
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Board Meeting
Draft
Topic Agenda
◼Introduction to Projects and Management Actions
◼Update on GSP Monitoring Networks
◼Introduction to Interconnected Surface Water and Groundwater
Dependent Ecosystems
◼GSP’s 3-month Outlook
2
Draft
Introduction to Projects and
Management Actions
Draft
Projects and Management Actions
◼Why do we need projects and management actions (PMAs)?
⚫To achieve the sustainability goal by 2042 and avoid undesirable results through 2092
⚫To respond to changing conditions in the Basin
⚫Each of the PMAs may support achieving sustainability for one or more sustainability
indicators
◼Can be categorized into
⚫Existing PMAs
⚫Proposed or planned PMAs to reach sustainability
⚫PMAs to be evaluated in the future
4
Draft
Proposed PMAs in WG Meeting and Existing PMAs
◼Proposed Projects:
⚫Reduce evaporation losses in storage
facilities
◼Use of WaterSavr for Lake Mendocino and
agricultural ponds
◼Use shade ball cover for agricultural ponds
⚫Implement recharge projects
◼Using ag fields to recharge by utilizing frost protection
systems and/or timely off-season diversions
◼Implement multi-benefit infiltration projects including
stormwater BMPs and LIDs
⚫Protect source waters and recharge areas
◼Purchase surface water tributaries’ headwaters
◼Limit urbanization of recharge areas through working
with land use planning agencies 5
◼Existing PMAs:
⚫City of Ukiah RW project (Water Supply)
⚫PVP Project (Water Supply)
⚫Ukiah Valley-Redwood Valley Water Supply
Reliability Intertie and Well Development Project
(Water Supply)
⚫Forecast Informed Reservoir Operation (Water
Supply)
⚫Water Main and Meter Replacement (Demand
Management)
⚫Conservation ordinances and programs outlined in
general plans and water plans
⚫Public education and outreach
⚫Improved frost and heat forecasting
Draft
Questions?
Draft
Update on GSP Monitoring
Networks
Draft
GSP Annual Reporting Requirements
8
Directly or
indirectly
measured by the
monitoring
networks
◼Monitored data should be stored in the Data Management System and reported in
the annual reports (April 1 of each year):
⚫Groundwater elevation data
◼Contour maps of at least seasonal highs and lows for each aquifer
◼Hydrographs with water year types from at least Jan 1 , 2015.
⚫Groundwater extraction
◼A table showing extractions by water use sector
◼A map showing general location of extractions
◼Surface water supply available for groundwater recharge or in-lieu use
◼Total water use by water use sector and water source type
⚫Change in groundwater storage
◼Based on contour map for each principal aquifer
◼Graph by water year type
⚫Progress towards implementing the Plan, including achieving interim milestones and
implementing PMAs
Draft
Chronic Lowering of Groundwater Levels
9
◼Goal:
⚫Adequate spatial distribution,
coverage, and well density
⚫Long-term history
⚫Adequate frequency to capture
seasonal, short and long-term
trends
◼What is needed:
⚫Monitoring History: Available
historical data
⚫Well Information: construction
information such as well depth
and screened interval(s)
⚫Well Access
All CASGEM Wells
Wells with
aquifer
specified
WCR and
depth/screens
Depth/screens
Only depth
Draft
Chronic Lowering of Groundwater Levels
10
Aq
u
i
f
e
r
I
Aq
u
i
f
e
r
I
I
Existing Gap
Good Spatial Coverage
No long history data for RMPs
RMPs with good historical records
Draft
◼Next steps
⚫Complete missing well construction information
⚫Obtain appropriate access agreements for RMPs and wells that need them
⚫Instrument and drill scheduled wells
⚫Compile data gaps and propose further steps to fill such gaps for coming reviews of
the GSP.
Chronic Lowering of Groundwater
Levels
11
Draft
Degradation of Water Quality
12
◼Goal:
⚫Adequate spatial distribution,
coverage, and well density
⚫Long-term history
⚫Adequate frequency to capture
seasonal, short and long-term trends
◼What is needed:
⚫Monitoring History: Available
historical data
⚫Well Information: construction
information such as well depth and
screened interval(s)
⚫Well Access
⚫Sampling of COCs with defined
frequency
◼COCs
⚫Boron
⚫Iron
⚫Manganese
⚫Nitrate
⚫Specific conductivity
◼Started from all
Public/Private Supply wells
with DDW Sampling record
of COCs.
◼Limited to ones we could
identify their aquifers.
Draft
Degradation of Water Quality
13
◼Next steps
⚫Coordinate with suppliers to incorporate their wells in the program
⚫Review suppliers monitoring schedule and program to ensure
sufficient frequency of COC sampling
⚫Obtain access and sampling agreements if necessary
⚫Obtain and confirm well construction information
⚫Compile data gaps and propose further steps to fill such gaps for
coming reviews of the GSP:
◼Aquifer I has gaps in spatial coverage and temporal coverage
◼Possible alternatives not currently included:
⚫GSA monitoring sites: Wells that will be monitored and sampled by
the GSA
Draft
Depletion of Surface Water Monitoring
Network
14
◼Goal:
⚫Characterize spatial and temporal exchanges between SW/GW
⚫Characterize flow conditions:
◼surface water discharge
◼surface water head
◼baseflow contribution
⚫Identify the approximate date and location where ephemeral or
intermittent flowing streams and rivers cease to flow
⚫Characterize temporal change in conditions due to variations in
stream discharge and regional GW extraction
◼What is needed:
⚫Streamgages and flow measurement
⚫High-frequency GW elevation measurement
⚫Observations of flowing/not flowing conditions
⚫Estimation of depleted volume and changes in condition (integrated
model)
Draft
Reduction in Storage and Subsidence
15
GW
Elevation
Monitoring
Well
◼Subsidence
⚫As discussed previously, InSAR satellite-derived
subsidence data product published annually by DWR is
proposed to be used for the monitoring.
⚫Benchmark surveys or groundwater levels as proxy can
also be used for monitoring subsidence. However, due
to lack of historical subsidence in the basin they are not
proposed as of now.
◼Reduction in Storage
⚫We propose to use chronic lowering of
groundwater levels monitoring network for
reduction in storage.
⚫Reduction in storage will be measured using
groundwater elevations and will be compared to
model estimates. Groundwater elevations will be
used as proxy to monitor this criterion.
Draft
Reduction in Storage and Subsidence
16
GW
Elevation
Monitoring
Well
◼Subsidence
⚫As discussed previously, InSAR satellite-derived
subsidence data product published annually by DWR is
proposed to be used for the monitoring.
⚫Benchmark surveys or groundwater levels as proxy can
also be used for monitoring subsidence. However, due
to lack of historical subsidence in the basin they are not
proposed as of now.
◼Reduction in Storage
⚫We propose to use chronic lowering of
groundwater levels monitoring network for
reduction in storage.
⚫Reduction in storage will be measured using
groundwater elevations and will be compared to
model estimates. Groundwater elevations will be
used as proxy to monitor this criterion.
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Questions?
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Interconnected Surface Waters and
Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems
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WC §10727.4(l)Impacts to GDEs
19
◼23 CCR §351(m): “Groundwater
dependent ecosystem”
◼Refers to ecological communities
or species that depend on:
⚫Groundwater emerging
from aquifers; or
⚫Groundwater occurring near the
ground surface.
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Undesirable Results and Minimum Thresholds of GDEs
20
◼Undesirable Results (UR) for GDEs is
the lowering of groundwater levels to
cause diminishment of GDE habitat.
◼Minimum Thresholds (MT) for GDE
should be historic level of groundwater
near the vicinity of mapped GDEs.
Management Action
Trigger to avoid the
MT
Leads to
Undesirable
Result
Ideal
operating
range
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1. Mapped Potential GDEs
◼Natural Communities Commonly
Associated with Groundwater
Dataset (NC dataset)
⚫Collaboration between DWR, CDFW,
and The Nature Conservancy (TNC)
⚫Comprised of 2 datasets
◼Vegetation
◼Wetlands
⚫Available via DWR’s “NC Dataset
Viewer”
◼DWR 2010 Land Use (Crop Maps
2014 and 2016)
⚫Riparian
⚫Dry stream channel
⚫Water surface
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2. Depth to Groundwater
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Fall 2019 Spring 2019 Fall 2020
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Interconnected Surface Waters
◼23 CCR §351(o)
“Interconnected surface
water” refers to surface
water that is hydraulically
connected at any point by
a continuous saturated
zone to the underlying
aquifer and the overlying
surface water is
not completely depleted.
Gaining
Losing disconnected
Losing connected
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ISW Analysis: Russian River Long Profile
24Red: Russian River Profile Grey/Black: Groundwater Levels
Morrison Ck Talmage EF confluence Hwy 20
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Next Steps
◼Map connected/disconnected GDEs and ISW
◼Use the model to simulate scenarios and understand impact of groundwater
management.
◼Define undesirable results associated with depletion of surface waters that
should be avoided.
◼Assess impacts on identified ISWs due to set Sustainable Management Criteria
and evaluate whether they avoid undesirable results.
◼Repeat the last two steps while setting SMCs until satisfactory setting is
achieved.
25
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Questions?
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GSP’s 3-month Outlook
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3 -month Outlook
TAC meeting Key topics Key goals GSP chapter production
February •Introduction to Interconnected SW and GDE
approach
•Preliminary discussion on Project and
Management actions
Receive feedback on data used
Interconnected SW and GDEs
approach
Discussion on PMAs that can be
simulated with the GSFLOW
model
Technical team working already
on Chapter 1 and 2, and SMC
summary for Water Quality and
subsidence for a review by TAC
March •Water budget presentation including
historical, current and future conditions, and
primary scenarios
•Comparison of data and model; approach
and results for ISW and GDEs analysis
Feedback about full water
budget
Discussion about data and
model results for ISW and GDEs
Based on TAC feedback,
technical team will start drafting
Chapter 4 and 5 for PMAs and
implementation
April •Refinement of Groundwater Dependent
Ecosystems (GDEs) and ISW approach
•Presentation of possible approach for
groundwater level decline SMC
•Presentation of possible approach for
depletion of surface water
Possibly get final feedback
about GDEs and how to
integrate that into the other
SMCs
Receive Feedback on
groundwater levels SMC
Finalizing monitoring networks
Technical Team working on
finalizing Chapter 2 for water
budget and ISW/GDEs
Produce relevant SMC
subchapters of chapter 3 for
TAC review
Draft
Questions?
Ukiah
Public
SGMA Thank you!