HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-06-12 GSA Agenda PacketPage 1 of 3
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN
GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
Regular Meeting
AGENDA
County of Mendocino Supervisors Chamber ♦ 501 Low Gap Rd. ♦ Ukiah, CA 95482
To participate or view the virtual meeting, go to the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86074412428
Alternatively, you may view the meeting (without participating) by clicking on the date and name of the meeting at
www.cityofukiah.com/meetings, then go to the media tab.
June 12, 2025 - 10:00 AM
1.CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
2.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
3.AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
The Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) Board welcomes input from the audience. If there is a matter of business on the
agenda that you are interested in, you may address the Board when this matter is considered. If you wish to speak on a matter
that is not on this agenda that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the GSA Board, you may do so at this time. In order for
everyone to be heard, please limit your comments to three (3) minutes per person and not more than ten (10) minutes per
subject. The Brown Act regulations do not allow action to be taken on audience comments in which the subject is not listed on
the agenda.
4.DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS
4.a.Consideration of the Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026 Operating Budget of the Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
Recommended Action: Approve of the Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026 operating budget of the Ukiah
Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
Attachments:
1.FY25-26 Budget Staff Report With Tables
4.b.Consideration of a Resolution Adopting Regulatory Fee Changes for Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026.
Recommended Action: Adopt the Resolution adopting regulatory fee changes for Fiscal Year
2025 - 2026.
Attachments:
1.Fee Resolution 005-2025
5.CONSENT CALENDAR
The following items listed are considered routine and will be enacted by a single motion and roll call vote by the GSA Board.
Items may be removed from the Consent Calendar upon request of a Board Member or a citizen, in which event the item will
be considered at the completion of all other items on the agenda. The motion by the Board Members on the Consent Calendar
will approve and make findings in accordance with Staff recommendations.
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5.a. Approval of the Minutes for the April 10, 2025, GSA Regular Meeting.
Recommended Action: Approve the minutes for the April 10, 2025, GSA Regular Meeting
Attachments:
1. 2025-04-10 Draft Minutes
5.b. Authorize the General Manager to Execute an Amendment to Existing Vendor Agreements with
California Land Stewardship Institute (CLSI), Mendocino County Resource Conservation
District (MCRCD), West Yost, and Larry Walker & Associates (LWA) Extending the Term
Through June 2025, with Minor Changes to Scope and Compensation.
Recommended Action: Authorize the General Manager, in collaboration with legal counsel and
the GSA Board Chair, to execute amendments to existing vendor agreements
6. STAFF AND PARTNER UPDATES
6.a. Updates from General Manager
6.b. Updates from GSA Legal Counsel
Recommended Action: Receive updates from GSA Legal Counsel regarding the disbandment of
Upper Russian River Water Agency
7. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS AND SET NEXT MEETING DATE
7.a. Discussion and Consideration of Future Agenda Items and Scheduling of Next Meeting Date
with Meeting to be Held at the County of Mendocino, Board of Supervisors Chamber, 501 Low
Gap Rd., Ukiah, CA 95482, at 10:00 a.m.
Recommended Action: Adopt the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026 meeting schedule of the Ukiah
Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
FY
25/26
GSA BOARD
REGULAR
MEETINGS
TECHNICAL
ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
MEETINGS
Q1 Thursday,
August 14, 2025
Q2 Wednesday,
October 8, 2025
Q2 Thursday,
November 13,
2025
Q3 Wednesday,
February 11, 2026
Q3 Thursday, March
12, 2026
Q4 Wednesday, May 13,
2026
Q4 Thursday, June
11, 2026
8. ADJOURNMENT
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Please be advised that the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) Board needs to be notified 24 hours in advance of a
meeting if any specific accommodations or interpreter services are needed in order for you to attend. The GSA Board complies with ADA
requirements and will attempt to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities upon request. Materials related to an item on this
Agenda submitted to the GSA Board Members after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at the front counter at
the Ukiah Civic Center, 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, CA 95482, during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Any handouts or presentation materials from the public must be submitted to the clerk 48 hours in advance of the meeting; for handouts, please
include 10 copies.
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing agenda was posted on the bulletin board at
the main entrance of the City of Ukiah City Hall, located at 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, California; and at 501 Low Gap Rd., Ukiah, CA 95482;
not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting set forth on this agenda.
Kristine Lawler, CMC/CPMC
Dated: 6/6/25
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Agenda Item No: 4.a.
MEETING DATE/TIME: 6/12/2025
ITEM NO: 2025-659
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT:Consideration of the Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026 Operating Budget of the Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
PREPARED BY: Blake Adams, Chief Resiliency Officer
PRESENTER: Blake Adams, General Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. FY25-26 Budget Staff Report With Tables
Summary:Staff recommends Board approval of the proposed FY 2025/2026 GSA Budget, which funds
essential activities required to comply with the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) and
maintain local control of the Ukiah Valley groundwater basin. The proposed budget totals $1.32 million in
revenue—a 48% increase from the prior year—driven by grant funding from the California Department of Fish
& Wildlife, inflation-adjusted fee revenue, and reserve growth. Expenditures are projected at $1.14 million,
reflecting a 60% increase primarily due to the launch of the Interconnected Surface Water and Groundwater
Dependent Ecosystems Study and the start of GSP Periodic Evaluation work. All tabulated data and figures
can be found in Attachment 1.
Background: The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), passed in 2014, requires the Ukiah
Valley groundwater basin to prepare and implement a Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSP) that guides the
Ukiah Valley basin towards sustainability. The project and management actions (PMAs) identified in the GSP
are conducted for the sole purpose of complying with the requirements of SGMA. It is acknowledged that
historically, this basin has operated sustainably. However, changes in water transfers from the Eel River and
climate change pose certain risks that may need to be addressed in the future management of local
groundwater.
GSA staff met twice with the Ad-Hoc Budget Committee (Directors Gaska and Watt) to develop the proposed
FY 2025/2026 budget to fund activities needed to stay in compliance with SGMA and maintain local control of
the groundwater basin. The proposed budget, summarized in Attachment 1, aligns with the projected budgets
developed for the 2024 Fee Study and adheres to sound fiscal management principles.
Discussion: Revenues
GSA revenues are expected to increase by 48% from the FY24-25 budget to a total revenue of $1,318,260.
This increase captures 1) an increase to the FY-End Reserve projected for the end of FY24-25 to $218,500, 2)
an increase in grant revenue from the California Department of Fish & Wildlife as the Interconnected Surface
Water Study kicks off, and 3) a 2.2% increase to the groundwater sustainability fee to keep pace with inflation.
Expense
A detailed review was conducted by staff and the Ad-Hoc Budget Committee of expenses for the GSA. The
agreed upon expenses were limited to those necessary to perform essential functions of the GSA for sigma
compliance and the start of work on the Interconnected Surface Waters and Groundwater Dependent
Ecosystems (ISWGDE) study. The committee reviewed the various expenses and recommended those listed
in the budget in the amount of $1,139,210, each of which is summarized below. Total expenditures are
anticipated to increase by 60% from FY24-25 largely due to the initiation of the CDFW grant work and
rollovers from FY24-25 for projects that were not initiated but will be initiated in FY25-26.
Page 4 of 66
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The GSA Administration budget covers all operational costs of running the agency, as detailed in section
5.1.1.1 of the GSP. This includes costs for banking with the County of Mendocino, running Board and TAC
meetings, insurance, legal fees, fee program management, levy administration, and placement of the
groundwater sustainability fees on the property tax bills with the County of Mendocino. Costs are no longer
expected associated with the transition of administration services in FY25-26. Levy administration will be a
new task which was previously captured as part of the Fee Study task under Project and Management
Actions.
The PMA Administration budget covers all costs associated with oversight and management of PMAs, as
detailed in section 5.1.1.1 of the GSP. This includes costs for oversight of GSP contractors, contract and fiscal
management, outreach activities, grant administration, and Small GSA Coalition dues. Most tasks in this
budget category are expected to be reduced in cost due to the cost savings of the City of Ukiah taking on
administrative duties. The Grant Administration task is anticipated to increase in budget as the CDFW grant
work is launched. Small GSA Coalition Membership Dues is a new task associated with contributions to fund
the Small GSA Coalition which advocates for small GSAs across the state. The Ukiah Valley Basin GSA has
participated in this Coalition since its inception, but this work has previously been funded by Sonoma Water
who is no longer willing to be the sole funder. Prior PMA Administration budgets included costs for grant
applications, however no grant applications are anticipated in FY 25-26.
The GSP Implementation budget covers all annual monitoring and reporting identified in section 5.1.1.2 of the
GSP. This is work primarily conducted by LWA, MCRCD and CLSI. No significant budget adjustments are
anticipated in this budget category aside from alignments with actual expenses from FY24-25.
The Project and Management Actions budget covers all costs associated with the implementation of high
priority PMAs, along with GSP update requirements detailed in section 5.1.1.2 of the GSP. These are
explained in more detail below:
• Periodic Evaluation Model Updates: Conduct model updates in preparation for the GSP Periodic
Evaluation which is due to DWR in January 2027. Model updates will support all 5 Corrective Actions
required by DWR for GSP Update. While budgeted for in the FY24-25 budget, this work was not begun
and will begin in FY25-26.
• Rate and Fee Study: This work was completed in FY24-25.
• GSP Periodic Evaluation: Begin GSP Periodic Evaluation development. Updates to the GSP were
required in the GSP Approval Letter among the 5 Corrective Actions. While budgeted for in the FY24-
25 budget, this work was not begun and will begin in FY25-26. The TAC will be providing guidance to
the extent of updates.
• Well Inventory Study: Develop a comprehensive inventory of wells within the Ukiah Valley Basin and
update the basin model to account for additional well data that wasn't previously captured in the
development of the basin model to most accurately represent the groundwater conditions and possible
extraction points within the basin. This will improve groundwater modeling, future outreach efforts, and
potential future fee structures. This is an important predecessor to other PMAs. It also supports All 5
Corrective Actions required by DWR for GSP Update. This work was begun in FY24-25 and will
continue in FY25-26.
• Interconnected SW-GW Study: Fill in high-priority data gaps related to interconnected surface
waters, groundwater dependent ecosystems, fish health, and water quality within the basin, and update
the basin model and sustainable management criteria related to depletion of surface water. This
project will help the GSA better define and prioritize PMAs to manage the basin more effectively where
there's uncertainty on the future of Potter Valley Project diversions which support surface water flows,
instream recharge to groundwater, groundwater dependent ecosystems, and fish habitat. It may also
lead to more funding to support needed restoration work to improve the Russian River and tributaries
ability to support instream recharge to groundwater, groundwater dependent ecosystems, and fish
Page 5 of 66
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habitat which increases local drought resiliency. Supports Corrective Action 4 required by DWR for
GSP Update. This project is funded under a grant from CDFW and will be launching in FY25-26.
Fiscal Impact
The GSA anticipates collecting $643,860 in GSA fee revenue, plus an assumed reimbursement from CDFW
for the ISWGDE work in the amount of $471,700 in addition to an opening cash balance estimated at
$218,500 (total cash equals $1,334,060 not including bad debt), $1,139,210 in expenses, and an estimated
$179,050 in net total cash by the end of FY 2025/2026.
Recommended Action: Approve of the Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026 operating budget of the Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
Page 6 of 66
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. • Ukiah • California 95482 • (707)463-4363 • fax (707)463-5474
GSA Administration Staff Report
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the Board approve the proposed FY 2025/2026 GSA Budget.
Summary
Staff recommends Board approval of the proposed FY 2025/2026 GSA Budget, which funds essential
activities required to comply with the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) and maintain
local control of the Ukiah Valley groundwater basin. The proposed budget totals $1.32 million in
revenue—a 48% increase from the prior year—driven by grant funding from the California Department
of Fish & Wildlife, inflation-adjusted fee revenue, and reserve growth. Expenditures are projected at
$1.14 million, reflecting a 60% increase primarily due to the launch of the Interconnected Surface Water
and Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (ISWGDE) Study and the start of GSP Periodic Evaluation work.
Background
The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), passed in 2014, requires the Ukiah Valley
groundwater basin to prepare and implement a Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSP) that guides the
Ukiah Valley basin towards sustainability. The project and management actions (PMAs) identified in the
GSP are conducted for the sole purpose of complying with the requirements of SGMA. It is
acknowledged that historically, this basin has operated sustainably. However, changes in water transfers
from the Eel River and climate change pose certain risks that may need to be addressed in the future
management of local groundwater.
GSA staff met twice with the Ad-Hoc Budget Committee (Directors Gaska and Watt) to develop the
proposed FY 2025/2026 budget to fund activities needed to stay in compliance with SGMA and maintain
local control of the groundwater basin. The proposed budget, summarized below, aligns with the
projected budgets developed for the 2024 Fee Study and adheres to sound fiscal management
principles.
Revenues
GSA revenues are expected to increase by 48% from the FY24-25 budget to a total revenue of
$1,318,260. This increase captures 1) an increase to the FY-End Reserve projected for the end of FY24-25
to $218,500, 2) an increase in grant revenue from the California Department of Fish & Wildlife as the
Interconnected Surface Water Study kicks off, and 3) a 2.2% increase to the groundwater sustainability
fee to keep pace with inflation.
ATTACHMENT 1
Page 7 of 66
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. • Ukiah • California 95482 • (707)463-4363 • fax (707)463-5474
Projected revenues are summarized below:
FY24/25
Adopted
Budget
Proposed
FY25/26
Budget
Change
from FY
2024-25
Adopted
% Change
from
FY 2024-
25
Income
FY-End Reserve $91,237 $218,500 $127,263 139%
Grants (CDFW) $214,615 $471,700 $257,085 120%
GSA Fee Revenue $600,000 $643,860 $43,860 7%
Bad Debt / Delinquencies / Appeals ($15,990) ($15,800) $190 -1%
Total Income $889,862 $1,318,260 $428,398 48%
Expense
A detailed review was conducted by staff and the Ad-Hoc Budget Committee of expenses for the GSA.
The agreed upon expenses were limited to those necessary to perform essential functions of the GSA for
sigma compliance and the start of work on the Interconnected Surface Waters and Groundwater
Dependent Ecosystems (ISWGDE) study. The committee reviewed the various expenses and
recommended those listed in the budget in the amount of $1,139,210, each of which is summarized
below. Total expenditures are anticipated to increase by 60% from FY24-25 largely due to the initiation
of the CDFW grant work and rollovers from FY24-25 for projects that were not initiated but will be
initiated in FY25-26.
FY24/25
Adopted
Budget
Proposed
FY25/26
Budget
Change
from FY
2024-25
Adopted
% Change
from
FY 2024-
25
GSA Administration $ 140,515 $ 138,900 $ (1,615) -1%
County Admin (CoM) $ 5,200 $ 5,500 $ 300 6%
Board / TAC Meetings (CoU) $ 45,665 $ 42,000 $ (3,665) -8%
Insurance (GSMRA) $ 2,600 $ 2,800 $ 200 8%
Legal (KMTG) $ 43,250 $ 45,000 $ 1,750 4%
Fee Program Administration (CoU) $ 16,800 $ 7,600 $ (9,200) -55%
Levy Administration (HEC) $ - $ 24,000 $ 24,000 100%
County Fee Costs (CoM) $ 12,000 $ 12,000 $ - 0%
Administration Staffing Transition (WY) $ 15,000 $ - $ (15,000) -100%
Page 8 of 66
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. • Ukiah • California 95482 • (707)463-4363 • fax (707)463-5474
The GSA Administration budget covers all operational costs of running the agency, as detailed in section
5.1.1.1 of the GSP. This includes costs for banking with the County of Mendocino, running Board and
TAC meetings, insurance, legal fees, fee program management, levy administration, and placement of
the groundwater sustainability fees on the property tax bills with the County of Mendocino. Costs are no
longer expected associated with the transition of administration services in FY25-26. Levy administration
will be a new task which was previously captured as part of the Fee Study task under Project and
Management Actions.
FY24/25
Adopted
Budget
Proposed
FY25/26
Budget
Change
from FY
2024-25
Adopted
% Change
from
FY 2024-
25
PMA Admininstration $ 80,200 $ 85,750 $ 5,550 7%
GSP Implementation Oversight (CoU) $ 24,000 $ 10,600 $ (13,400) -56%
Contracts/Fiscal Management (CoU) $ 33,000 $ 20,200 $ (12,800) -39%
Outreach, Engagement and Annual
Workshops (CoU) $ 8,700 $ 3,700 $ (5,000) -57%
Grant Administration (CoU)* $ 12,000 $ 45,000 $ 33,000 275%
Website/Email (CoU) $ 2,500 $ 2,500 $ - 0%
Small GSA Coalition Membership Dues $ - $ 3,750 $ 3,750 100%
The PMA Administration budget covers all costs associated with oversight and management of PMAs, as
detailed in section 5.1.1.1 of the GSP. This includes costs for oversight of GSP contractors, contract and
fiscal management, outreach activities, grant administration, and Small GSA Coalition dues. Most tasks
in this budget category are expected to be reduced in cost due to the cost savings of the City of Ukiah
taking on administrative duties. The Grant Administration task is anticipated to increase in budget as the
CDFW grant work is launched. Small GSA Coalition Membership Dues is a new task associated with
contributions to fund the Small GSA Coalition which advocates for small GSAs across the state. The
Ukiah Valley Basin GSA has participated in this Coalition since its inception, but this work has previously
been funded by Sonoma Water who is no longer willing to be the sole funder. Prior PMA Administration
budgets included costs for grant applications, however no grant applications are anticipated in FY 25-26.
Page 9 of 66
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. • Ukiah • California 95482 • (707)463-4363 • fax (707)463-5474
FY24/25
Adopted
Budget
Proposed
FY25/26
Budget
Change
from FY
2024-25
Adopted
% Change
from
FY 2024-
25
GSP Implementation $ 125,250 $ 132,900 $ 7,650 6%
Annual Reporting (LWA) $ 20,800 $ 25,000 $ 4,200 20%
Technical Support (LWA + MCRCD) $ 54,200 $ 56,400 $ 2,200 4%
As-needed Technical Support (LWA) $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ - 0%
Monitoring/Data Collection (LWA +
MCRCD) $ 30,250 $ 31,500 $ 1,250 4%
The GSP Implementation budget covers all annual monitoring and reporting identified in section 5.1.1.2
of the GSP. This is work primarily conducted by LWA, MCRCD and CLSI. No significant budget
adjustments are anticipated in this budget category aside from alignments with actual expenses from
FY24-25.
FY24/25
Adopted
Budget
Proposed
FY25/26
Budget
Change
from FY
2024-25
Adopted
% Change
from
FY 2024-
25
Project & Management Actions $ 365,975 $ 781,660 $ 415,685 114%
Periodic Evaluation Model Updates $ 31,200 $ 89,520 $ 58,320 187%
Rate and Fee Study (HEC) $ 40,000 $ - $ (40,000) -100%
GSP Periodic Evaluation $ 51,600 $ 168,240 $ 116,640 226%
Well Inventory Study $ 40,560 $ 97,200 $ 56,640 140%
Interconnected SW-GW Study* $ 202,615 $ 426,700 $ 224,085 111%
The Project and Management Actions budget covers all costs associated with the implementation of
high priority PMAs, along with GSP update requirements detailed in section 5.1.1.2 of the GSP. These
are explained in more detail below:
• Periodic Evaluation Model Updates: Conduct model updates in preparation for the GSP
Periodic Evaluation which is due to DWR in January 2027. Model updates will support all 5
Corrective Actions required by DWR for GSP Update. While budgeted for in the FY24-25 budget,
this work was not begun and will begin in FY25-26.
• Rate and Fee Study: This work was completed in FY24-25.
• GSP Periodic Evaluation: Begin GSP Periodic Evaluation development. Updates to the GSP were
required in the GSP Approval Letter among the 5 Corrective Actions. While budgeted for in the
FY24-25 budget, this work was not begun and will begin in FY25-26. The TAC will be providing
guidance to the extent of updates.
Page 10 of 66
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
340 Lake Mendocino Dr. • Ukiah • California 95482 • (707)463-4363 • fax (707)463-5474
• Well Inventory Study: Develop a comprehensive inventory of wells within the Ukiah Valley
Basin and update the basin model to account for additional well data that wasn't previously
captured in the development of the basin model to most accurately represent the groundwater
conditions and possible extraction points within the basin. This will improve groundwater
modeling, future outreach efforts, and potential future fee structures. This is an important
predecessor to other PMAs. It also supports All 5 Corrective Actions required by DWR for GSP
Update. This work was begun in FY24-25 and will continue in FY25-26.
• Interconnected SW-GW Study: Fill in high-priority data gaps related to interconnected surface
waters, groundwater dependent ecosystems, fish health, and water quality within the basin,
and update the basin model and sustainable management criteria related to depletion of
surface water. This project will help the GSA better define and prioritize PMAs to manage the
basin more effectively where there's uncertainty on the future of Potter Valley Project
diversions which support surface water flows, instream recharge to groundwater, groundwater
dependent ecosystems, and fish habitat. It may also lead to more funding to support needed
restoration work to improve the Russian River and tributaries ability to support instream
recharge to groundwater, groundwater dependent ecosystems, and fish habitat which increases
local drought resiliency. Supports Corrective Action 4 required by DWR for GSP Update. This
project is funded under a grant from CDFW and will be launching in FY25-26.
Fiscal Impact
The GSA anticipates collecting $643,860 in GSA fee revenue, plus an assumed reimbursement from
CDFW for the ISWGDE work in the amount of $471,700 in addition to an opening cash balance
estimated at $218,500 (total cash equals $1,334,060 not including bad debt), $1,139,210 in expenses,
and an estimated $179,050 in net total cash by the end of FY 2025/2026.
Page 11 of 66
Page 1 of 1
Agenda Item No: 4.b.
MEETING DATE/TIME: 6/12/2025
ITEM NO: 2025-660
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT:Consideration of a Resolution Adopting Regulatory Fee Changes for Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026.
PREPARED BY: Blake Adams, Chief Resiliency Officer
PRESENTER: Blake Adams, General Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Fee Resolution 005-2025
Summary:A resolution must be adopted to satisfy the County’s requirement to place the adjusted fees on the
tax roll, and that must happen before August 1 of each year. To satisfy this requirement allowing the Ukiah
Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency to adopt its proposed budget and implement fee increases to
adjust for inflation, a resolution has been prepared with support from Hansford Economic Consulting. Staff
recommend that the Board adopt this Resolution adopting regulatory fee changes for Fiscal Year 2025-2026.
Background: The Board of Directors of the Ukiah Valley Basin GSA approved a groundwater sustainability
fee on June 18, 2024, as authorized by Water Code section 10730 to fund the costs of a groundwater
sustainability program, including implementation of the Ukiah Valley Basin GSP. The fee resolution (No. 005-
2024) authorized the Board of Directors to adjust the maximum fee rate to be levied in future fiscal years
based on the annual change in the West Region Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (“CPI” or
“CPI-U”), measured each March of the preceding calendar year, with an annual adjustment not to exceed 4%
per year based on increased cost projections for each upcoming fiscal year. The prepared annual budget for
the agency includes increased costs due to inflation and the West Region Consumer Price Index for All Urban
Consumers (“CPI” or “CPI-U”) from March 2024 to March 2025 was 2.24%. A 2.24 % increase of the
groundwater sustainability fee would result in the rates set forth below (see Attachment 2):
$4.16 Per Acre in GSA Boundary
$0.1382 Per 1,000 Gallons Extracted
$33.48 Per Cropped Acre
$35.44 Per Acre of Entire Parcel
Percent Change from FY 2024-2025: 2.24%
Discussion: Staff recommends adopting the Resolution adopting regulatory fee changes for Fiscal Year 2025
- 2026.
Recommended Action: Adopt the Resolution adopting regulatory fee changes for Fiscal Year 2025 - 2026.
Page 12 of 66
Agenda Item: 4.b., Attachment 2
Meeting Date: June 12, 2025
4930-3267-5594.1 014737.001 1
RESOLUTION NO.: 005-2025
Dated: June 12, 2025
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER
SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY (UVBGSA) SETTING GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY FEE FOR FY25-26.
WHEREAS, the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) of 2014 provides
groundwater sustainability agencies (GSAs) with the authority to impose and collect fees on all
applicable properties to fund regulatory activities within the GSAs’ jurisdictional boundaries; and
WHEREAS, the Ukiah Valley Basin GSA is the exclusive GSA over the Ukiah Valley Basin and
developed a Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) covering the entire basin, which the Department of
Water Resources approved on July 27, 2023; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Ukiah Valley Basin GSA approved a groundwater
sustainability fee on June 18, 2024 as authorized by Water Code section 10730 to fund the costs of a
groundwater sustainability program, including implementation of the Ukiah Valley Basin GSP; and
WHEREAS, the fee resolution (No. 005-2024) authorized the Board of Directors to adjust the
maximum fee rate to be levied in future fiscal years based on the annual change in the West Region
Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (“CPI” or “CPI-U”), measured each March of the
preceding calendar year, with an annual adjustment not to exceed 4% per year based on increased cost
projections for each upcoming fiscal year; and
WHEREAS, the prepared annual budget for the agency includes increased costs due to inflation;
and
WHEREAS, the West Region Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (“CPI” or “CPI-U”)
from March 2024 to March 2025 was 2.24%; and
WHEREAS, a 2.24 % increase of the groundwater sustainability fee would result in the rates set
forth in Attachment A; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors reviewed and considered the UVBGSA’s Annual Budget for the
period July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, attached hereto, and has determined that a 2.24% increase to the
Groundwater Sustainability Fee is necessary to account for inflationary cost increases in the upcoming
fiscal year.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GSA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS
FOLLOWS:
1.The Groundwater Sustainability Fee for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 is set at the rates identified in
Attachment A on the terms and conditions set in Resolution No. 005-2024; and
ATTACHMENT 2
Page 13 of 66
Agenda Item: 4.b., Attachment 2
Meeting Date: June 12, 2025
4930-3267-5594.1 014737.001 2
2.The Agency Administrator is hereby authorized and directed to file a certified copy of this
resolution with the Auditor-Controller of the County of Mendocino. Upon such filing, the
County Auditor-Controller shall enter on the County assessment roll opposite each lot or
parcel of land the amount of fee thereupon as shown in the levy roll. The fees shall continue
to be collected at the same time and in the same manner as County taxes are collected and
all the laws providing for collection and enforcement shall apply to the collection and
enforcement of the assessments. After collection by the County, the net amount of the
assessments, after deduction of any compensation due the County for collection, shall be
paid to the Agency; and
3.The Agency General Manager is hereby authorized and directed to cause the direct billing of
the fee for entities that do not receive a tax bill; and
4.The Agency General Manager and Agency Counsel are hereby authorized and directed to
take such other and further steps as may be necessary or appropriate to implement the
intent and purpose of this resolution.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of Directors of Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency, this
12th day of June 2025, by the following vote:
MEMBERS:
Cline: _____ Crane: ______ Gaska: _______ McNerlin: ______ Nevarez: _______ Watts: _______
AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN:
SO ORDERED
The within instrument is a correct copy of the original on file with this office.
ATTEST: DATE: June 12, 2025
Theresa McNerlin
Secretary/Clerk of the Board of Directors of the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency,
County of Mendocino, State of California
Resolution 005-2025
Attachment A
Page 14 of 66
Agenda Item: 4.b., Attachment
2A Meeting Date: June 12, 2025
4930-3267-5594.1 014737.001 3
Fee Component FY 2025 Fee
FY 2026
Fee
PART 1 FEE: BASE FEE $4.07 $4.16 Per Acre in GSA Boundary
Every parcel is charged the base fee plus the group fee for the group the parcel is classified as [1]
PART 2 FEES
GROUP 1 PUBLIC WATER SYSTEMS $0.1352 $0.1382 Per 1,000 gallons extracted
GROUP 2 CROP LAND $32.75 $33.48 Per Cropped Acre [2]
GROUP 3 IMPROVED PROPERTIES [4] $34.67 $35.44 Per Acre of Entire Parcel [3]
GROUP 4 ALL OTHER $0.00 $0.00
[1] Federal properties and tribal properties held in trust by the Federal government are exempt.
[2] Properties classified group 2 because of a medium, large, or nursery cannabis license capped at 1.0 acre.
[3] Residential group 3 properties capped at 0.5 acres.
[4] Improved properties not in groups 1 or 2.
Note: The fee is automatically increased by the March to March change in the West Region Consumer Price
Index for All Urban Consumers, as shown below.
Mar-24 332.202
Mar-25 339.627
Change 7.425
Percentage
Change 2.24%
Page 15 of 66
AGENDA ITEM 5a
Page 1 of 3
UKIAH VALLEY BASIN GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
Regular Meeting
MENDOCINO COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS CHAMBER
501 Low Gap Road, Ukiah, CA 95482
Virtual Meeting Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86074412428
Ukiah, CA 95482
April 10, 2025
10:00 a.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
The Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA/GSA) met at a Regular
Meeting on April 10, 2025, having been legally noticed on April 3, 2025. The meeting was held in
person and virtually at the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86074412428. Chair Cline called
the meeting to order at 10:06 a.m. Roll was taken with the following Directors Present: Adam
Gaska, Ag Representative; Theresa McNerlin, Upper Russian River Water Agency Representative
(URRWA); John Bailey, Russian River Flood Control (RRFC) District Representative (Alternate
Director for Chris Watt); Douglas F. Crane; and Madeline Cline. Directors Absent: Eddie Nevarez,
Tribal Representative. Staff Present: Blake Adams, GSA General Manager and Kristine Lawler,
Ukiah City Clerk.
Also Present: Audra Bardsley, Camille Woicekowska, and Laura Foglia, Lawrence Walker
Associates; Dominic Blum-Gutierrez, Department of Water Resources (DWR); Elizabeth Salomone,
Russian River Flood Control (RRFC) District; Jamie Neary, Russian Riverkeeper; Josie Slovut,
Mendocino County Water Agency (MCWA); Laurel Marcus, California Land Steward Institute (CLSI);
Glenn McGourty; Sean White, City of Ukiah.
CHAIR CLINE PRESIDING.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Member McNerlin.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Presenter: Chair Cline.
Motion/Second: Crane/Gaska to approve the agenda, including moving agenda item 6a to be heard
prior to agenda item 4. Motion carried by the following roll call votes: AYES: Gaska, McNerlin,
Nevarez, Bailey, Crane, and Cline. NOES: None. ABSENT: Nevarez. ABSTAIN: None.
3. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
No public comments were received.
6. STAFF AND PARTNER UPDATES
a. Updates from General Manager.
Presenter: Blake Adams, UVBGSA General Manager.
Presentation was received.
Page 16 of 66
Groundwater Sustainability Agency Minutes for April 10, 2025, Continued:
Page 2 of 3
4. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS
a. Update Regarding the City of Ukiah Administration Services Contract.
Presenter: Blake Adams, UVBGSA General Manager.
No public comment was received.
Report was received.
b. Preliminary FY 25/26 Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) Budget Presentation.
Presenter: Blake Adams, UVBGSA General Manager.
No public comment was received.
Motion/Second: Crane/McNerlin to appoint Directors Watt and Gaska to serve on a Budget Ad Hoc
Committee to finalize the FY 25/26 budget. Motion carried by the following roll call votes: AYES:
Gaska, McNerlin, Nevarez, Bailey, Crane, and Cline. NOES: None. ABSENT: Nevarez. ABSTAIN:
None.
Board Directive for Staff to show an actuals comparison with the budget for the conversation in
June.
c. Results and Next Steps Regarding the Upper Russian River Groundwater Dependent
Ecosystem and Interconnected Surface Waters Study Request for Proposals (RFP).
Presenter: Blake Adams, UVBGSA General Manager.
No public comment was received.
Motion/Second: Crane/Gaska to direct Staff to proceed with vendor selection with a not-to-exceed
threshold pending the results of the competitive bid process. Motion carried by the following roll call
votes: AYES: Gaska, McNerlin, Nevarez, Bailey, Crane, and Cline. NOES: None. ABSENT: Nevarez.
ABSTAIN: None.
d. Sustainability Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) Facilitation Support Services (FSS)
Implementation Service Plan.
Presenters: Blake Adams, UVBGSA General Manager; Elizabeth Salomone, Mendocino County
Russian River Flood Contract & Water Conservation Improvement District General Manager.
No public comment was received.
Motion/Second: Crane/Gaska to direct the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) to re-form the
Facilitation Support Services (FSS) Ad Hoc Committee and engage with Stantec, the firm selected
by the Department of Water Resources (DWR), to provide FSS to the Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA/GSA). Motion carried by the following roll call votes:
AYES: Gaska, McNerlin, Nevarez, Bailey, Crane, and Cline. NOES: None. ABSENT: Nevarez.
ABSTAIN: None.
e. Annual Water Year 2024 Report Results.
Presenters: Blake Adams, UVBGSA General Manager and Audra Bardsley, Larry Walker
Associates Senior Scientist.
Page 17 of 66
Groundwater Sustainability Agency Minutes for April 10, 2025, Continued:
Page 3 of 3
Public Comment: Glenn McGourty.
Report was received.
Chair Directive to Staff to take into consideration the deadline for the annual report when drafting
next year’s meeting schedule.
5. CONSENT CALENDAR
a. Approval of the Minutes for the January 9, 2025, Regular Meeting.
Motion/Second: Crane/Gaska to approve the minutes for the January 9, 2025, Regular Meeting, as
submitted. Motion carried by the following roll call votes: AYES: Gaska, McNerlin, Nevarez, Bailey,
Crane, and Cline. NOES: None. ABSENT: Nevarez. ABSTAIN: None.
6. STAFF AND PARTNER UPDATES, Continued
a. Updates from General Manager.
Presenter: Blake Adams, UVBGSA General Manager.
Public Comment: Elizabeth Salomone and Dominic Blum-Gutierrez, Department of Water
Resources.
Presentation was received.
7. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS AND SET NEXT MEETING DATE
a. Discussion and Consideration of Future Agenda Items and Scheduling of Next Meeting
Date with Meeting to be Held at the County of Mendocino, Board of Supervisors Chamber,
501 Low Gap Rd., Ukiah, CA 95482, at 10:00 a.m.
Presenter: Chair Cline.
No public comment was received.
Board Consensus to schedule the next meeting date for June 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
Chair Directive for Members to share calendar availability with the General Manager for preparation
of the next fiscal year meeting schedule agenda item.
Note: Member McNerlin reported that the next meeting may be the last one with URRWA
representation as they are dissolving with the new fiscal year.
8. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 10:53 a.m.
_______________________________
Madeline Cline, Chair
ATTEST:
________________________________
Sean White, Secretary
Page 18 of 66
Streamflow Gage Monitoring
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
FY2025/2026 SCOPE OF WORK AND BUDGET
California land Stewardship Institute (CLSI) will provide the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater
Sustainability Agency (GSA) with streamflow gage monitoring and reporting for 2 stream gages
identified in the Groundwater Sustainability Plan. CLSI will coordinate as needed with LWA, but
the GSA will assure that the data loggers at each gage are in functional order. CLSI will attend
GSA Board and GSA Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meetings.
Scope of Work: Streamflow Gage Monitoring and Reporting
CLSI will conduct streamflow gage monitoring of the Larry Walker Associates (LWA) gages at
Forsythe Creek and the West fork of the Russian River. The monitoring will complete four sets
of two discharge measurements during FY 2025 wet season.
Activities will include:
Task 1
•Discharge measurements using a pygmy meter, wading rod, and Aquacalc software.
•Data download
•Administration and updates to records/general record-keeping
Task 2
•Data evaluation and preparation of final report
Task 3
•Reporting of observed data to GSA
•Attendance at GSA Board and Technical Advisory Committee meetings
•Assumes two TAC and Board meetings are in person
•Coordination with LWA for streamflow gage maintenance
Deliverables:
1.Biannual reporting of streamflow gage data to GSA
2.Quarterly reports on the progress of the data collection during wet season, if any
3.Attendance at GSA and GSA TAC meetings
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Budget
UVBGSA Streamflow Gage Monitoring 7 /1/25 - 6/30/26
Task Task Item Qty Unit Type Rate Subtotal
1 Discharge Measurements 58 Hours $72.00 $4,176.00
1 Mileage 820.5 Miles 0.655 $537.43
1 Administration 5.1 Hours $87.00 $441.09
2 Data Evaluation and Final 20 Hours $72.00 $1,440.00 Report
3 Attend Board and TAC 33 Hours $87.00 $2,871.00 Meetings
3 Mileage 816 miles $0.655 $534.48
Total $10,000.00
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15
Groundwater Elevation and Groundwater Quality Monitoring
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
FY 25-26 DRAFT SCOPE OF WORK AND BUDGET
Mendocino County Resource Conservation District (MCRCD) will provide the Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) with groundwater elevation monitoring for 26 wells
and groundwater quality sampling for nine wells as identified in the Groundwater Sustainability
Plan according to a schedule created for the GSA by consultants Larry Walker Associates (LWA),
and reporting associated with all monitoring. MCRCD will also coordinate as needed with LWA
and attend GSA and GSA Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meetings.
Scope of Work:
Task 1: Groundwater Elevation Monitoring and Data Collection for 26 wells:
MCRCD will collect groundwater elevation monitoring data for nine (9) wells monthly, four (4)
wells every other month, and thirteen (13) wells twice per year. The monitoring schedule is
detailed in Tables 1 and 2, below.
Activities will include:
•Communication with well owners to arrange visits and answer questions
•Manual groundwater elevation monitoring
•Updates to records/general record-keeping
•Submission of data to the SGMA portal and reporting of data to GSA (monthly data
reporting and quarterly reports)
•Attendance at GSA Technical Advisory Committee meetings
•Coordination with consultants regarding the status of wells, telemetry equipment and
assistance with equipment problems
•Bookkeeping
Deliverables:
1.Collection and reporting of monthly groundwater elevation data
2.Quarterly reports on the progress of the data collection
3.Attendance at GSA TAC meetings
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ATTACHMENT 4
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16
Task 2: Groundwater quality sampling for nine (9) wells (UVBGSA-01a,b,c; UVBGSA-06a,b,c,d;
UVBGSA-05; and UVBGSA-07): one time only for five constituents (specific conductivity,
nitrate, iron, boron, manganese)
MCRCD will contract Blaine Tech or comparable contractor to collect ten (10) groundwater
quality samples for nine (9) wells, one time during the fiscal year. The tenth sample will be
collected at the same sampling event and will be a duplicate set for one well as a quality control
measure. The wells are identified in Table 1, below.
Activities will include:
•Contracting with Blaine Tech for groundwater quality sampling
•Coordination with landowners for access to wells
•Collection of ten (10) water quality samples at nine (9) wells for nitrate, specific
conductivity, iron, manganese, and boron, including one set of duplicate samples at one
well for quality control
•Coordination of sample testing at Alpha Labs or equivalent
•Reporting the results to the GSA
•Coordination with consultants as needed
Deliverables:
1.Results of one-time water quality samples for nitrate, specific conductivity, iron,
manganese, and boron from nine wells
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Table 1. Monitoring Schedule for Individual Wells
Well Name
Groundwater Elevation
Monitoring Frequency
Groundwater Quality
Sampling Frequency RMP Status
Ukiah Valley-1 Monthly until instrumented, then
every other month RMP
Ukiah Valley-2 Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Sep, Nov not RMP
Ukiah Valley-3
Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Sep, Nov not RMP
Ukiah Valley-4
Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Sep, Nov not RMP
Ukiah Valley-9 Monthly not RMP
Ukiah Valley-15 Monthly (data from City of Ukiah)
not RMP
Ukiah Valley-16 Monthly not RMP
Ukiah Valley-17 Monthly not RMP
Ukiah Valley-18 Monthly not RMP
Ukiah Valley-25 Monthly not RMP
Ukiah Valley-26 Mar, Sep RMP
Ukiah Valley-32
Monthly RMP
Ukiah Valley-34 Mar, Sep not RMP
Ukiah Valley-36 Monthly (data from City of Ukiah)
proposed RMP
Ukiah Valley-37 Monthly (data from City of Ukiah)
not RMP
Ukiah Valley-10a Mar, Sep (data from CA Land
Stewardship Institute)RMP
UVBGSA-01a Mar, Sep once a year not RMP
UVBGSA-01b Mar, Sep once a year not RMP
UVBGSA-01c Mar, Sep once a year not RMP
UVBGSA-02 Mar, Sep not RMP
UVBGSA-05 Mar, Sep once a year not RMP
UVBGSA-06a Mar, Sep once a year not RMP
UVBGSA-06b Mar, Sep once a year not RMP
UVBGSA-06c Mar, Sep once a year not RMP
UVBGSA-06d Mar, Sep once a year not RMP
UVBGSA-07 Mar, Sep once a year not RMP
UVBGSA Groundwater Elevation and Groundwater Quality Monitoring
Schedule FY 25-26
July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024
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Table 2. Monitoring Schedule by Month
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Number of Monthly
Wells 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9
# of wells every other
month 4 4 4 4 4 4
# of biannual wells 13 13
Total wells each month 13 9 26 9 13 9 13 9 26 9 13 9
Field hours allocated
per person 3.5 3.5 8 3.5 4.5 3.5 4.5 3.5 8 3.5 4.5 3.5
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EXHIBIT B
PAYMENT TERMS
1.CONSULTANT shall be compensated on a time-and-expense basis, not to
exceed Thirty Five Thousand Six Hundred Twenty Two Dollars and Sixty Cents
($35,622.60). This fee shall not be exceeded without the prior written
authorization from the UVBGSA General Manger and approval by the Board.
2.CONSULTANT shall submit invoices no less than quarterly, detailing the specific
services provided and clearly explaining any incidental charges.
3.UVBGSA shall pay CONSULTANT for all work requested upon the satisfactory
completion of said work.
4.Payments for work completed by CONSULTANT will be made by UVBGSA
within 30 days of receipt of CONSULTANT's invoice.
[END OF PAYMENT TERMS]
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ATTACHMENT 1 TO EXHIBIT B
Qty Unit Type Rate Amt
Communication with well owners 12 hours 115.00$ 1,380.00$
Monitoring (2 people in the field)108 hours 115.00$ 12,420.00$
Updating records 30 hours 115.00$ 3,450.00$
Reporting: monthly data and quarterly reports 30 hours 115.00$ 3,450.00$
GSA TAC Meetings 8 hours 115.00$ 920.00$
Coordination with consultants and GSA 18 hours 115.00$ 2,070.00$
Bookkeeping 12 hours 115.00$ 1,380.00$
Mileage (50 miles/monitoring event x 12 months)720 miles 0.670$ 482.40$
Supplies: replacement water level meter, alcohol, gloves, batteries, etc.1 lump sum 700.00$ 700.00$
Subtotal Task 1 Groundwater Elevation Monitoring 26,252.40$
Qty Unit Type Rate Amt
Project management (contracting, reporting and record-
keeping, landowner/consultant coordination)18 hours 115.00$ 2,070.00$
Contractor: water quality sampling 1 lump sum 4,500.00$ 4,500.00$
Alpha Labs analyses (2024 prices: $276 each per well, plus
one duplicate for quality control)*10 lump sum 276.00$ 2,760.00$
Mileage 60 miles 0.670$ 40.20$
Subtotal Task 2 Water Quality Sampling Monitoring 9,370.20$
TOTAL 35,622.60$
UVBGSA Groundwater Elevation Monitoring 7/1/25-6/30/26
Task 1: Groundwater Elevation Monitoring for 26 wells: 13 monthly, 13 twice per year
Task 2: Groundwater quality sampling for nine (9) wells (UVBGSA-01a,b,c; UVBGSA-06a,b,c,d;
UVBGSA-05; and UVBGSA-07): one time only; five constituents (Sp conductivity, nitrate, iron,
boron, manganese)
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Administrative Services
Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
FY 2025/2026 SCOPE OF WORK AND BUDGET
1.Board and Committee Meetings: Preparing meeting materials, attending meetings
and completing meeting follow-up administrative tasks.
2.Attend Technical Advisory Committee Meetings: Preparing meeting
mate.rials, attending meetings and completing meeting follow-up administrative
tasks.
3.GSP Implementation Oversight: Conducting administrative work
required for GSP implementation, including:
o Directing Technical Consultants
o Reviewing Executive Order well permit applications
o Annual Report and Project Management Action (PMA) coordination
o Legal Coordination
o Miscellaneous support and engagement meetings
4.Fiscal and Contract Management: Supporting contract and invoice
management, monthly financial reporting and annual GSA budget preparation.
5.Website and Email and Maintenance: Costs associated with maintaining the GSA
website and email service.
6.Administration and Management of RFS Implementation: Supporting Rate and
Fee implementatiqn, which includes coordinating with the county, water purveyors,
billings and appeals.
West Yost (WY) will provide the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
(GSA) with the following CONSULTANT administrative support services in coordination
with the General Manager and the City of Ukiah for a period of 6 months (July 1, 2025 to
December 31, 2026):
West Yost will support the General Manager on an hourly cost basis upon written
request, by:
4
•
ATTACHMENT 5
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..
EXHIBIT 8 - PAYMENT TERMS, first bullet has been modified as follows:
1.The Consultant shall be compensated on a time-and-expense basis
not-to exceed thirty thousand dollars for the term of the Agreement, to be
billed in accordance with the Billing Rate Schedule, included below as
Attachment 1 to Exhibit B. This fee shall not be exceeded without the prior
written authorization from the UVBGSA.
Samantha Adams $352 per hour
Harry Starkey $336 per hour
Indigo Banister $237 per hour
Sabrina Marson $224 per hour
Jenna Geslo $141 per hour
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Ukiah GSA, On Call Technical Support 1 June 2025
June 6, 2025
Blake Adams
General Manager, UVBGSA
Email: badams@cityofukiah.com
300 Seminary Ave
Ukiah, CA 95482
Office 707-463-6752
On Call technical services for the Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Dear Mr. Adams,
We appreciate the opportunity to provide this proposed scope of services to the Ukiah
Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency to support the technical work needed for
compliance with SGMA.
The LWA on call scope of work includes, but is not limited to, the following tasks:
•Task 1: Attendance (Virtual) of Board and TAC meetings to provide technical
guidance
•Task 2: Preparation of the WY 2025 Annual Report
•Task 3: Technical support: supervise data collection, support the GSA with data
reporting to DWR, coordinate data collection effort with CLSI and MCRCD
•Task 4: As-needed technical Support: Other GSP related technical support as
requested by the UVBGSA General Manager in writing
1480 Drew Avenue
Suite 100
Davis, CA 95618
www.lwa.com 530.753.6400
530.753.7030 fax
ATTACHMENT 6
Page 30 of 66
Ukiah GSA, On Call Technical Support 2 June 2025
Schedule and Cost Estimate
Table 1 summarizes the projects tasks described above and the associated budget for
the Fiscal Year 2025/26.
Table 1. Budget
Proposed FY25/26 Budget
GSP Implementation $ 75,000
Meetings attendance and
preparation (Board and TAC) $ 15,000
Annual Reporting $ 25,000
Technical Support $ 25,000
As-needed Technical Support $ 10,000
LWA welcomes the opportunity to discuss the scope and cost estimate. Should you
have any questions, please feel free to contact me at lauraf@lwa.com.
Sincerely,
Laura Foglia
Vice President
Page 31 of 66
Ukiah GSA, On Call Technical Support 3 June 2025
Page 32 of 66
Statement of Qualifications Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 1
Larry Walker Associates
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 COVER LETTER……………………………………………………………………………………………….I
2.0 DESCRIPTION OF QUALIFICATIONS ................................................................................................. 2
2.1 Larry Walker Associates ................................................................................................................ 2
2.2 Stillwater Sciences ......................................................................................................................... 3
2.3 DBS&A ........................................................................................................................................... 4
2.4 University of California Cooperative Extension ............................................................................. 4
2.5 Similar Project Experience ............................................................................................................. 6
3.0 PROPOSED RESPONDENT TEAM ................................................................................................... 11
3.1 Organizational Chart .................................................................................................................... 17
3.2 Project understanding .................................................................................................................. 18
4.0 PROPOSED SCOPE OF WORK ......................................................................................................... 21
Task 1: Monitoring Plan Development ..................................................................................................... 21
Task 2: Water Resource Management Recommendations ..................................................................... 27
Task 3: Program Management and Grant Compliance ........................................................................... 28
5.0 SCHEDULE.......................................................................................................................................... 30
6.0 COST PROPOSAL .............................................................................................................................. 31
7.0 CONFLICTS ......................................................................................................................................... 33
8.0 REFERENCES..................................................................................................................................... 33
9.0 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................................................... 34
9.1 Insurance ..................................................................................................................................... 34
9.2 Use of UVBGSA Logo .................................................................................................................. 34
Appendix 1. Resumes
Appendix 2. Required Forms
ATTACHMENT 7
Page 33 of 66
Statement of Qualifications Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 2
Larry Walker Associates
2.0 DESCRIPTION OF QUALIFICATIONS
As demonstrated by the qualifications and supporting information listed below, the Larry Walker
Associates Team (LWA Team) is uniquely and effectively positioned to assist the Ukiah Valley Basin
Groundwater Sustainability Agency (UVBGSA or GSA) with evaluating groundwater-dependent
ecosystem (GDE) and interconnected surface water (ISW) dynamics in the Upper Russian River (URR)
watershed. LWA has been a trusted technical leader in the groundwater-surface water management area
for over a decade and has been at the forefront of water resource management efforts in California for
more than 45 years.
Experience with Groundwater-Surface Water Interconnection Studies: Our Team brings
extensive experience characterizing groundwater-dependent ecosystems and surface water
interconnection, particularly in systems supporting salmonids like Chinook salmon and steelhead
in California watersheds.
Expertise in Monitoring and Modeling: The LWA Team has demonstrated excellence in all key
aspects of the project, including biological surveys, telemetered sensor networks, specialized
geochemical analyses, and integrated hydrological modeling, as outlined in the Scope of Work.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Grant Experience: Our Team has
successfully managed more than a dozen projects funded through CDFW grants, ensuring
compliance with rigorous data management requirements and scientific integrity policies.
Successful Collaboration with Stakeholders and Tribes: We have proven experience
incorporating stakeholder and Tribal input into monitoring networks and water resource
management planning efforts.
Technical Capabilities: The LWA Team possesses the technical expertise required for all
project components, including updating the Ukiah Valley Integrated Hydrological Model (UVIHM)
to assess various management scenarios under different climate conditions, installation operation
and maintenance of telemetered sensor networks, and development of an interactive data
management system.
Record of Meeting Schedules and Budgets: Our Team has consistently delivered similar
technical studies on time and within budget, with the capacity to complete this project by the
March 2028 deadline.
Strong References: The LWA Team has supportive client references from similar GSP-related
projects, as provided in 6.0. References.
Efficient Access to the Ukiah Valley Basin (UVB or Basin): Key LWA Team members
including the proposed project manager live within a two-hour drive of Ukiah and are prepared to
quickly mobilize for UVBGSA and community meetings, field work, and instrument installation.
2.1 Larry Walker Associates
Larry Walker Associates, Inc. (LWA) is a privately owned S corporation and Women-Owned Business
Enterprise providing environmental engineering and management services throughout California.
Headquartered in Davis, California (1480 Drew Ave, 100, Davis, CA), LWA has regional offices in Yreka,
Berkeley, San Diego, Santa Monica, and Ventura and an office in Seattle, Washington. For more than 45
years, LWA has been a partner, innovator, and industry leader, assisting public agencies in navigating
and solving complex environmental and public policy challenges.
Since the adoption of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) in 2014, LWA has
developed six Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSPs), all completed on time and approved by
DWR. We currently provide GSP implementation support in more than 10 basins, focusing on the critical
data collection and monitoring networks that form the foundation for sustainable groundwater
management.
Page 34 of 66
Statement of Qualifications Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 3
Larry Walker Associates
LWA's technical expertise directly aligns with the URR GDE/ISW Study requirements, with a staff of over
75 staff, with a team of over 15 specializing in groundwater-surface water integrated modeling,
geochemical analysis, water quality monitoring, and comprehensive data management that meets
CDFW's scientific integrity standards. Our Team has extensive experience implementing all aspects of
SGMA, particularly in characterizing groundwater-dependent ecosystems and analyzing surface water
interconnections critical for supporting sensitive fish species like the Chinook salmon and steelhead found
in the Upper Russian River watershed.
LWA has over 20 years of experience designing, installing, and operating real-time telemetered water
monitoring networks across California—expertise directly applicable to Task 1 of this request for
proposals (RFP). Our experience includes installing over 200 continuous sensor systems, including 20
streamflow stations, uniquely positioning our Team to effectively and efficiently install continuous sensors
to measure temperature and water levels in the specified wells and to develop the expanded monitoring
network required for this study.
Of particular relevance to this project, LWA has worked with the UVBGSA in the URR watershed since
2018, developing and implementing the GSP that this study will enhance. We have established
productive relationships with key Basin stakeholders through ongoing stakeholder engagement and
coordination, including agricultural representatives, municipalities (City of Ukiah), and tribal
representatives. This existing network and familiarity with the Basin will enable efficient implementation of
the stakeholder and Tribal input requirements specified in the project.
Our experience building, updating and running integrated hydrological models, including the UVIHM
specified in Task 2, will allow our Team to immediately begin the project with no lag time and without
duplicating the efforts of existing projects.
2.2 Stillwater Sciences
Stillwater Sciences is a 100-person scientific consulting firm with
specialists in aquatic and terrestrial biology, wetland and restoration
ecology, water quality, geomorphology, hydrology, engineering, and
spatial analysis. Stillwater uses science-based technical approaches
to water resource management and has been conducting hydrologic,
geomorphic, riparian, and ecological studies for nearly 30 years. Our scientists and engineers have been
actively engaged in evaluating ecological and geomorphic characteristics of groundwater basins
throughout California river systems and provide keen insight into habitat linkages to the overall aquatic
ecosystem, including sensitive species and habitats. Stillwater staff use a combination of field data
collection, field- and GIS-based modeling, and analytical methods to support project orientation and
conceptual model development, determination of current site conditions, interpretation of past and
predictions of future site conditions, interdisciplinary problem-solving and project planning.
Stillwater is leveraging its scientific expertise to understand the impacts of groundwater management on
GDEs throughout California. Our Team has assessed GDEs and evaluated their hydrologic needs in eight
GSPs and the five-year update for one alternative GSP. Stillwater developed and is currently
implementing a post-GSP monitoring plan for ISW and GDEs in the Napa Valley Subbasin. The Stillwater
Team is developing projects to use pumped groundwater to supplement important GDEs in the Fillmore
and Piru groundwater basins during droughts. The Stillwater Team is also evaluating the presence of
steelhead (O. Mykiss) using environmental DNA. Stillwater scientists have also published on GDEs in the
journal Fremontia and Stillwater staff have monitored anadromous fish throughout the western U.S.
Page 35 of 66
Statement of Qualifications Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 4
Larry Walker Associates
2.3 DBS&A
DBS&A is a water resources, environmental, and engineering
consulting firm. Our firm’s scientists and engineers provide a broad
range of services to assist water managers, water purveyors, and
natural resource entities with optimal development, use, and management of groundwater and surface
water resources, including water resources planning, water supply development, managed aquifer
recharge, water recycling and reuse, water infrastructure engineering, water rights, hydrologic analyses
and modeling, water quality investigations and treatment, and watershed and stormwater management.
DBS&A developed a comprehensive, web-accessible environmental database management system
(DMS/DBMS) called GLA-Data to store, visualize, map, manage, and report environmental data. Since
2007, we have been a leader in the development of environmental DMS/DBMS. Our developers have
continuously enhanced our systems, incorporating new technology to meet clients’ evolving needs. GLA -
Data now serves more than 20 clients across the western U.S., helping clients make vast amounts of
technical data readily accessible and easy to analyze. New applications based on our existing platform
can be rolled out quickly at a reasonable cost.
Key features include:
• Dashboard-style user interfaces through
a web browser.
• Map-based geographic information
system integration.
• Interactive data visualization tools.
• Automated reporting capabilities.
• Multiple data export options.
• Tiered login credentials for enhanced
security.
• 24/7 downtime monitoring.
• Routine security updates and backups.
DBS&A has in-house expertise in developing customized information management solutions to assist
clients with managing data-related environmental, natural resource, and infrastructure projects and
programs. We have developed data management systems that en able remote users to access,
manipulate, map, and interpret vast amounts of data with a user-friendly, web-based interface. We use
standard industry software and integrate data with project-related documents for simplified analysis and
interpretation. With a web-based platform, every team member can access the same information
simultaneously or individually from their desktop.
2.4 University of California Cooperative Extension
UCCE Mendocino County is part of the UC Agriculture and Natural
Resources (UC ANR) network, dedicated to delivering science-based
solutions to local challenges. As a key link between UC research and
the Mendocino community, UCCE Mendocino has provided research,
education, and outreach for over a century and it serves as a hub for
agriculture, natural resources, community development, and youth programs, helping to sustain and
enhance the County’s socioeconomic resilience. Within UCCE Mendocino, the Water and Climate
Change Program tackles critical environmental challenges through research and education. Our program
studies extreme climate events such as droughts and floods, integrated water resources management,
environmental flows, surface-groundwater interactions, water quality assessments, and social-ecological
resilience in watersheds. Additionally, the program actively engages with the community by providing
science-based education and resources to support informed decision -making. Through workshops,
technical assistance, and collaborative projects, it helps Tribes, landowners, farmers, and local
governments implement water policies, advance water management strategies, conservation measures,
and climate adaptation strategies.
Page 36 of 66
Statement of Qualifications Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 5
Larry Walker Associates
Table 1. LWA Team Relevant Project Experience
Services Identified in the Scope of Work
Project Experience
Reference Provided1
Project Description Provided2
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Firm
Scott Valley Irrigation District (SVID) Recharge Project, CA1,2 • • • • • • LWA
Creating Long-Term Water Supply Resiliency for Ukiah Valley and Upper
Russian River, CA1,2 • • • • • • • • LWA
Napa Valley Subbasin ISW and GDE Workplan and Implementation,
Napa, CA1,2 • • • • • Stillwater
Ukiah Groundwater Sustainability Plan and On-Call Technical Services,
Ukiah, CA2 • • • • • • • • • LWA & WLC
Fillmore and Piru Groundwater Subbasins Interconnected Surface Water
Analysis, CA 2 • • • • • • DBS&A
Groundwater Quality Monitoring and Reporting, St. Helena, CA • • • • • • • LWA
Sierra Valley Groundwater Sustainability Plan Development, Plumas and
Sierra Counties, CA • • • • • • LWA & WLC
County of Siskiyou Developing and Implementing Groundwater
Sustainability Plans for the Shasta, Scott, and Butte Valley Groundwater
Basins, Siskiyou, CA
• • • • • • LWA & WLC
South American Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Plan
Development, Sacramento, CA • • • • • • LWA & WLC
The Nature Conservancy, Framework for Coho Salmon Habitat
Restoration in Lower Ten Mile River, CA • • • • • Stillwater
Page 37 of 66
Proposal Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 6
Larry Walker Associates
2.5 Similar Project Experience
The following project descriptions feature select efforts demonstrating our expertise in monitoring plan
development, sensor updates and installation, water resource management reporting and data
management plan development. These examples highlight our collaborative approach, technical
excellence, and consistent delivery of exceptional results.
Project 1. Creating Long-Term Water Supply Resiliency for Ukiah Valley and Upper
Russian River
Completed By LWA
Client Name California Land Stewardship Institute
Years of Service 2024-Present
This US Bureau of Reclamation WaterSMART grant -funded project aims to create a
comprehensive water management solution for Upper Russian River communities through the
enhancement of the existing UVIHM and development of an innovative Decision Support Tool
(DST). The project addresses critical water management challenges by combining advanced
modeling capabilities with practical, user-friendly tools for stakeholders.
The UVIHM integrates three sophisticated models: the USGS Precipitation-Runoff Modeling
System (PRMS), USGS Modular Groundwater Flow Model (MODFLOW), and DWR Integrated
Water Flow Model Demand Calculator (IDC). This integrated approach enables precise simu lation
of surface and groundwater interactions across the Upper Russian River watershed. The project
will enhance this existing framework through:
Automated data integration from public sources (NOAA, USGS, DWR) for annual model
updates.
Incorporation of high frequency sensor data for groundwater level and streamflow from Ukiah
Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency monitoring network.
Implementation of climate scenario modeling capabilities.
Incorporation of multi-faceted management scenarios informed by climate conditions and
surface water availability.
Development of groundwater pumping zones to visualize potential impacts of pumping on
surface water resources.
The project includes a range of climate scenario modeling, combined with projected changes to
release volumes and timing from Lake Mendocino and inter-basin water transfers from the Eel
River. These scenarios will help stakeholders understand potential impacts and effectiveness of
various management strategies, from water rights curtailment and conservation measures to
construction of off-stream storage ponds. A key project outcome is the development of a DST with
online user interface that will provide critical water resource information to water system managers,
farmers, and stakeholders. The DST will offer:
An accessible web-based interface suitable for a diverse set of users.
Interactive visualization of water management scenarios under a variety of climate
conditions.
Guidance on pumping rates and locations to minimize streamflow impacts.
Community engagement is integrated throughout the project through a Technical Steering
Committee, ensuring that local knowledge and stakeholder needs are incorporated into the
tool's development. The final product will be a sustainable, maintainable system that can be
updated annually.
This project provides a data-driven, scientifically rigorous approach to water resource management
in the Upper Russian River Watershed while maintaining accessibility for all stakeholders.
Page 38 of 66
Proposal Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 7
Larry Walker Associates
Project 2. Scott Valley Irrigation District (SVID) Recharge Project
Completed By LWA
Client Name Scott Valley Irrigation District
Years of Service 2021-Present
The CDFW-funded Scott Valley Irrigation District
(SVID) pilot recharge project aims to apply 5,400 acre-
feet of water to agricultural fields for recharge from
January through March and assess the resulting
instream flow benefits to key salmonid habitat in the
Scott River. This is accomplished through a threefold
approach that combines physical measurements,
geochemical monitoring, and integrated hydrologic
modeling. LWA has developed applications for and has
received 180-day temporary permits for underground
storage from the State Water Board for 2022-2025.
Water is diverted from the Scott River under qualifying flow conditions through the existing earthen
SVID irrigation ditch and distributed to agricultural fields for recharge to the aquifer.
The project has three core monitoring components that are conducted in tandem to gage the
potential benefits of managed SVID recharge:
• Physical monitoring through a network of telemetered high-frequency groundwater level,
temperature, and streamflow sensors that help to track the movement of water and quantify
recharge benefits. Instrumentation includes two stream gages in Scott River, located upstream and
downstream of the point of diversion, and five stream gages in the SVID ditch. In addition, the study
leverages existing observation wells and has installed two additional shallow well transects near
Scott River to understand groundwater gradient fluctuations in response to recharge.
• Geochemical monitoring helps characterize the timing and locations of interconnection in the
Scott River adjacent to and downstream of the recharge sites. Time series Radon-222 and stable
isotope of water samples are collected along a transect comprised of six Scott River monitoring
locations. These naturally occurring environmental tracers shed light on shifting water source
contributions to river discharge through time and the relative importance of localized groundwater
inputs to streamflow. Targeted subsurface streambed sampling helps to confirm periods when
monitoring sites gaining conditions.
• Biological monitoring carried out on the daily basis in coordination with Siskiyou County RCD to
ensure fish are not harmed by high flow diversions for on-field recharge.
Monitoring results are being used to calibrate and validate integrated hydrological modeling that
simulates the impacts of managed recharge on basin water budgets and ultimately key salmonid
habitat.
Page 39 of 66
Proposal Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 8
Larry Walker Associates
Project 3. Napa Valley Subbasin ISW and GDE Workplan and Implementation
Completed By Stillwater Sciences
Client Name Napa County Groundwater Sustainability Agency, as a subconsultant to
Luhdorff & Scalmanini Consulting Engineers
Years of Service 2022-Present
SMGA requires that impacts on ISW and GDEs be considered part of GSPs. This is particularly
important in the Napa River, where ISW maintains dry season flows that are crucial for aquatic
species living there. However, developing sustainable management criteria for ISW requires
understanding the spatial and temporal patterns of ecosystem usage in the basin and the linkage
between groundwater levels, surface flow, and habitat. The impact of groundwater levels on ISW on
GDEs was identified as a data gap in the Napa Subbasin GSP. Stillwater Sciences and our project
partners developed the ISW and GDEs workplan for the Napa Valley Groundwater Subbasin to
address this data gap. The Workplan addressed data gaps to better understand and quantify
existing and historical streamflow characteristics and how they relate to GDE health in the Napa
Valley Subbasin. The Workplan identified GDEs within the subbasin based on statewide datab ases
and past biological studies in the watershed. The work plan includes hydrologic and biological
surveys and incorporates the scientific components of the California Environmental Flows
Framework (CEFF). A prioritization metric was developed to identify six intensive survey sites for
implementation of the Workplan based on hydrologic record, ecologic importance (a function of the
number of special-status species life stages that use the site), and other considerations (i.e., stream
restoration, uniqueness of the site). The Napa Valley Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Agency
adopted the Workplan in March 2024 and outlines studies through 2031.
Workplan implementation began in May 2024. Stillwater Sciences conducted field surveys with
access permission for northwestern pond turtles, foothill yellow -legged frog, California freshwater
shrimp, and vegetation health at the four intensive survey sites. The presence of northwestern pond
turtles and foothill yellow-legged frog were also assessed using environmental DNA sampling.
Stillwater scientists also coordinated with the Napa RCD on steelhead habitat assessment, including
snorkel surveys, continuous stream temperature and dissolved oxygen measurements, and monthly
wet-dry mapping of the survey reaches. Hydrological data collected at each intensive site includes
groundwater elevation, vertical groundwater gradients, stream stage, and thalweg elevation profiles.
Subsequent surveys will assess special-status plants and birds at intensive sites. The 2024
biological and hydrological data and groundwater model results are being integrated into a CEFF
analysis, which will help determine ecosystem water needs at the six intensive sites and support the
development of sustainable management criteria for the depletion of ISW.
Page 40 of 66
Proposal Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 9
Larry Walker Associates
Project 4. Fillmore and Piru Groundwater Subbasins Interconnected Surface Water
Analysis
Completed By DBS&A
Client Name Ventura County
Years of Service 2019-Present
During GSP development, DBS&A performed an
evaluation of possible ISWs within the Fillmore and
Piru subbasins. Our approach was multi-faceted and
included a review and comparison of critical habitat
designations by the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Marine
Fisheries Service (NMFS or NOAA Fisheries) and
beneficial uses identified by the Los Angeles Regional
Water Quality Control Board (LARWQCB). Biological reports for the endangered Southern
California Steelhead, the primary driver of aquatic conservation efforts in the area, were reviewed
to determine their presence or absence in specific reaches. Surface water information and
relationships to groundwater data collected by the United Water Conservation District (UWCD or
United) was also evaluated as the Santa Clara River that flows through both basins is naturally
ephemeral, which adds additional challenges to quantifying the location, timing, and a quantity of
streamflow depletion required by SGMA. A plan to address ISW data gaps in the subbasins was
developed and is currently being implemented, with data made publicly available through the
Fillmore and Piru Basins DMS.
Project 5. Ukiah Groundwater Sustainability Plan and On-Call Technical Services
Completed By LWA
Client Name Ukiah Valley Basin GSA
Years of Service 2022-Present
Between 2018-2022 LWA successfully led development of the Ukiah Valley Basin GSP, which was
submitted to DWR in January 2022 and received DWR approval in July 2023. The cornerstone of
this effort was the creation and calibration of an Integrated Hydrological Model for the Upper
Russian River watershed, which enabled simulation of various climate and management scenarios.
The team conducted comprehensive stakeholder engagement throughout the process to ensure
local control of groundwater management while meeting SGMA requirements.
Beginning in 2022, LWA transitioned to an On-Call Technical Support role and has provided
comprehensive technical and regulatory support for GSP implementation in the Ukiah Valley Basin,
working in close partnership with the GSA staff, general manager, Board of Directors, and
Technical Advisory Committee.
Key tasks include, but are not limited to:
GSP Annual Report preparation integrating data from a broad cross -section of partner
agencies and monitoring networks to assess progress towards achieving SMCs.
Telemetered monitoring network management, maintenance and expansion, including
groundwater level and streamflow sensors with data visible on a custom dashboard and
integrated into an automated QAQC process.
Page 41 of 66
Proposal Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 10
Larry Walker Associates
Grant proposal development, including a successful submission to California Department of
Fish and Wildlife for an Interconnected Surface Water Study ($1.36 M awarded in October
2024).
Interpretation and prioritization of DWR’s recommended corrective actions ahead of the 2027
Periodic GSP Evaluation.
Data aggregation to support Rate and Fee Study development.
Development and implementation a Phase I Well Inventory focused on collection,
aggregation, and informed revision of well location and construction information followed by
identification of data gaps and recommendations for addressing those data gaps in
subsequent phases.
The LWA team provides regular technical presentations to the UVBGSA Board of Directors,
Technical Advisory Committee, and stakeholders to ensure transparent communication of GSP
implementation progress and challenges.
Page 42 of 66
Proposal Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 11
Larry Walker Associates
3.0 PROPOSED RESPONDENT TEAM
The LWA Team brings together highly qualified professionals with extensive experience in CDFW grant
funded project implementation, GDE and ISW analyses, integrated hydrological modeling, telemetered
sensor network installation, and database management. Each team member has been strategically
selected based on their specialized expertise, regional knowledge, and proven track records with similar
projects throughout California. The following biographies highlight our key staff's qualifications,
demonstrating the depth and breadth of experience they bring to UVBGSA. Detailed resumes are
provided in Appendix 1. Resumes.
As Project Manager, Dr. Bardsley will coordinate staff and subcontractors to ensure seamless delivery of
all project components. The two Technical Advisors will support Dr. Bardsley in developing
comprehensive monitoring plans, guiding hydrological modeling updates, and ensuring scientific rigor in
all technical analyses and management recommendations.
We have confirmed the Team's full availability and commitment through project completion. LWA will
notify UVBGSA staff in writing to receive approval for any change to the project team.
Staff Biographies
Dr. Bardsley is an aqueous geochemist with over ten
years of experience assisting public agencies with
water resource management challenges. As a Senior
Scientist at LWA, she provides technical, regulatory,
and project management support to groundwater and
stormwater clients across California. Dr. Bardsley has
developed particular expertise in SGMA compliance
and supports GSP implementation in five basins, where
she provides unique insights with her isotopic and
geochemical knowledge. She manages
multidisciplinary teams that tackle complex projects by
combining advanced technical tools like integrated
hydrologic modeling with an appreciation of local conditions to inform water management strategies. As
a former county government employee and faculty member with the USC Environmental Studies
Program, she’s able to effectively bridge the gap between scientific insights and practical, policy-
relevant solutions.
Dr. Foglia is a Vice President assisting with projects in
hydrological modeling, groundwater management
assistance, and managed aquifer recharge. At LWA,
she leads the groundwater services for the UVBGSA,
the implementation of Groundwater Sustainability Plans
for Siskiyou County, Sierra Valley and the South
American Subbasin Sacramento Central Groundwater
Authority. She is designing and implementing groundwater recharge projects for the Omochumne-
Hartnell Water District, the Scott Valley Irrigation District, the Dunnigan Water District, and other small
districts throughout Northern California. Since January 2016, Dr. Foglia has also been an adjunct
faculty member in the Land, Air, and Water Resources (LAWR) Department at the University of
California, Davis, where she teaches a graduate class on groundwater models and model calibration.
Laura Foglia, Ph.D.
Vice President, LWA
Role: Technical Advisor
Education: Ph.D. in Environmental
Engineering, ETH Zurich
Audra Bardsley, Ph.D.
Senior Scientist, LWA
Role: Project Manager
Responsibilities:
• Primary POC for UVBGSA staff
• Oversee quality control and final
document preparation
Education: Ph.D., Geochemistry, University
of Southern California
Page 43 of 66
Proposal Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 12
Larry Walker Associates
Mr. Lewis is a hydrologist affiliated with LWA. Mr.
Lewis has over 21 years of experience working with
government agencies in the field of integrated water
resource management with a focus on the application
of computational tools to evaluate groundwater -surface
water interactions and complex watershed processes
across California. Most recently, he has been involved
in efforts to enhance PRMS platforms under GSP
revision efforts across the State of California to ensure that models can be used to support management
and climate change scenario evaluation moving forward.
Dr. Walker focuses on environmental real-time
continuous remote sensing technology and
applications. He has developed a versatile sensor
platform based on data loggers, cellular modem
telemetry, and various sensors including both
discrete sensor elements, and multi -parameter data
sondes. The systems are designed for rapid
deployment at surface or groundwater sites or
paired with a GPS receiver for mixing zone studies or other mapping applications. Real time data is
typically posted to an internal web site for use by the project team. The platform enables effective
deployment of sophisticated web-enabled, real-time remote sensor equipment even for many small or
short-term projects. This sensor technology has proven valuable in complementing traditional monitoring
methods, enabling efficient and rapid understanding of parameters of interest within a watersh ed.
Mr. O’Neill has over 30 years of experience as an
environmental and water resources consultant. He
specializes in groundwater hydrology and modeling
and has contributed significantly to numerous
projects involving hydrogeologic characterization,
evaluation of the effectiveness of artificial recharge
in agricultural, desert and urban settings,
remediation of contaminated groundwater, and
water resources management.
Dr. Calderwood serves as a Project Engineer with
specialized expertise in groundwater modeling,
recharge project implementation, and GSP
development. Drawing on five years of experience in
groundwater condition assessment and monitoring,
Dr. Calderwood leads the development and
continuous refinement of integrated hydrologic models to support regional groundwater planning and
sustainability initiatives. His technical leadership spans multiple groundwater basins, including serving
as task lead for loosely coupled MODFLOW-PRMS models in Shasta Valley and Butte Valley, where he
successfully navigated GSP submissions that received state approval. Dr. Calderwood's project portfolio
includes managing groundwater recharge initiatives for the Omochumne -Hartnell Water District, where
he oversees monitoring equipment, prepares measured data for board review, and handles temporary
diversion permit reporting and renewals with state agencies. His innovative work integrating California
statewide Airborne electromagnetic survey data with existing groundwater models has enhanced the
Jeffrey Walker, Ph.D., PE
Engineer, LWA
Role: Tasks 1 & 2 Support
Education: Ph.D., Electrical Engineering &
Computer Sciences, University of California,
Berkeley
Gerald O’Neill, CHG, PG
Project Scientist, LWA
Role: Tasks 1 & 2 Support
Certifications: Certified Hydrogeologist,
California, No. 886; Professional Geologist,
California, No. 8186
Education: B.S., Geosciences, Pennsylvania
State University
Andrew Calderwood, Ph.D.
Project Engineer, LWA
Role: Tasks 1 & 2 Support
Education: Ph.D., Physical Hydrology
Will Lewis
Senior Hydrologist, LWA
Role: Technical Advisor & Task Lead
Education: M.S., Environmental Science
and Management, University of California,
Santa Barbara
Page 44 of 66
Proposal Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 13
Larry Walker Associates
representation of stream-aquifer interactions for the Cosumnes River Levee Setback project, directly
contributing to improved flood risk reduction and managed aquifer recharge opportunities. Dr.
Calderwood regularly presents complex groundwater modeling concepts to diverse stakeholders,
effectively communicating the benefits of managed recharge and sustainable groundwater management
practices throughout California.
Ms. Woicekowska is a Project Scientist with a
wealth of experience in environmental analysis,
computer science, and data visualization. As a
research assistant at the Lawrence Berkeley
National Laboratory, Ms. Woicekowska utilized high
performance computing systems to perform
simulations that provided valuable insights into fluid
systems and their dynamics. She worked with large
datasets from simulations and field studies, developing scripts in Python to effectively process, analyze,
and visualize the information. At LWA, Ms. Woicekowska supports groundwater projects, with a
particular focus on MODFLOW models for GSPs. In addition, she contributes compliance support for
stormwater reporting and field monitoring for stormwater and groundwater.
Mr. Melechin is a Project Scientist with specialized
expertise in ISW studies and groundwater
sustainability. Drawing on his geochemical
background, Mr. Melechin leads field teams in
conducting specialized sampling of radioisotopes
and water chemistry to identify groundwater-surface
water interactions across multiple watersheds. Mr.
Melechin's technical proficiency extends to analyzing stable water isotopes and major ions to identify
different water source contributions, constructing comprehensive data visualizations through GIS
mapping, and supporting GSP implementation in multiple basins across California.
Mr. Dory serves as a Project Scientist specializing
in environmental data analysis, advanced
instrumentation, and water resource management.
With an M.S. in Hydrology from UC Davis, he
applies Python and R programming to develop
custom data analysis solutions for environmental
monitoring. His relevant experience includes leading
continuous surface water monitoring systems, spearheading data collection and analysis for streamflow
improvement in Scott and Shasta River Valleys and supporting interconnected surface water
identification for sustainable management c riteria. Mr. Dory's field experience covers groundwater
sampling, installation of acoustic groundwater level sensors with telemetry, and implementing quality
control procedures for environmental mapping. His ability to communicate technical concepts has
facilitated effective stakeholder engagement with local residents and tribal members regarding
groundwater use curtailments on livelihoods and cultural traditions.
Stillwater Sciences
Camille Woicekowska
Project Scientist, LWA
Role: Tasks 1 & 2 Support
Education: B.A., Environmental Earth Science,
2022, University of California, Berkeley
Ben Melechin
Project Scientist, LWA
Role: Tasks 1 & 2 Support
Education: B.A., Earth Sciences, 2022,
University of Southern California
Chris Dory
Project Scientist, LWA
Role: Tasks 1 & 2 Support
Education: M.S., Hydrology, University of
California, Davis
Page 45 of 66
Proposal Prepared for:
Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Proposal for ISW Study 14
Larry Walker Associates
Dr. Braudrick is a geomorphologist with over 26 years
of extensive experience in river and floodplain systems
as both an environmental consultant and researcher.
Throughout his career at Stillwater Sciences, where he
has served for 13 years, Dr. Braudrick has established
himself as a leading expert in the interconnection
between hydrological processes and ecological systems.
His comprehensive knowledge spans fluvial geomorphology, GDEs, hillslope processes, and sediment
transport dynamics. Dr. Braudrick has pioneered methodologies for assessing the complex relationships
between groundwater systems and surface ecology, becoming instrumental in developing GSPs across
numerous California watersheds. As project manager for multiple groundwater sustainability initiatives,
Dr. Braudrick has successfully implemented the California Environmental Flows Framework to evaluate
impacts on aquatic species, developed drought mitigation strategies for riparian ecosystems, and
utilized remote sensing technologies to monitor vegetation health in groundwater-dependent systems.
Dr. Orr is a Principal/Senior Ecologist with over 40
years of experience leading complex natural resource
projects throughout the western United States. During
his 29-year tenure at Stillwater Sciences, Dr. Orr has
established himself as a preeminent authority in riparian
and wetland ecology, restoration planning, and GDEs.
Dr. Orr has been instrumental in pioneering Stillwater
Sciences' approach to assessing GDEs under the SGMA
serving as project director for multiple groundwater sustainability plans across Cali fornia, including the
Fillmore and Piru Basins, Owens Valley, and Madera and Chowchilla watersheds. Dr. Orr holds multiple
permits for working with sensitive species, including a USFWS recovery permit for California freshwater
shrimp and CDFW collecting permits for various aquatic species.
Ms. Adelstein is a seasoned hydrologist with 6 years of
professional experience and comprehensive expertise in
numerical modeling, data analysis, geospatial analysis,
water quality field methods, and technical writing. As a
key team member at Stillwater Sciences for the past 5
years, Ms. Adelstein has established herself as a
specialist in groundwater flow modeling using various
platforms including MODFLOW, GSFLOW, and FEHM.
Her technical proficiency extends to complex data analysis using Python and MATLAB, advanced GIS
applications, Google Earth Engine for environmental monitoring, and time-series data management
through AQUARIUS. Ms. Adelstein has made significant contributions to numerous groundwater
sustainability planning projects across California, where she applied her expertise in hydrogeology to
assess groundwater-dependent ecosystems, develop sustainable management criteria, and implement
monitoring networks for interconnected surface water systems.
Mr. Keith is a Senior Aquatic Ecologist with 34 years
dedicated to fisheries ecology and aquatic resource
management throughout California. During his 29-year
tenure at Stillwater Sciences, he has established himself
as a specialist in analyzing water and land management
impacts while developing effective restoration and
recovery strategies for native aquatic species. He excels
Christian Braudrick, Ph.D.
Senior Geomorphologist, Stillwater
Role: Tasks 1 & 3 Support
Education: Ph.D., Earth and Planetary
Science, University of California, Berkeley
Bruce Orr, Ph.D.
Principal Ecologist, Stillwater
Role: Tasks 1 & 3 Support
Education: Ph.D., Aquatic
Entomology/Aquatic and Wetland
Ecology, University of California, Berkeley
Esther Adelstein
Hydrologist, Stillwater
Role: Tasks 1 & 3 Support
Education: M.S., Earth and Planetary
Science, University of California, Santa
Cruz
AJ Keith
Senior Aquatic Ecologist, Stillwater
Role: Tasks 1 & 3 Support
Education: M.A., Ecology and Systematic
Biology, San Francisco State University
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in managing multidisciplinary conservation projects for sensitive aquatic resources, with particular
emphasis on collaborative approaches involving diverse stakeholders. His recent work has focused on
evaluating GDEs for GSPs, conducting comprehensive fisheries monitoring in watershed systems like
the Napa River, and developing habitat improvement designs for endangered Southern California
steelhead in the Los Angeles River watershed.
Ms. Burger is a Senior Wildlife Biologist at Stillwater
Sciences with 23 years of experience in aquatic and
terrestrial biology with focused experience in special-
status species surveys, biological resource evaluations,
impact analyses, and mitigation and monitoring planning.
Ms. Burger holds the following permits:
USFWS 10(a)1(A) recovery Permit #148552-4 for giant garter snake, Alameda whipsnake, San
Francisco garter snake, and California red-legged frog;
USFWS 10(a)1(A) recovery Permit #98536C-1 for Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog and
California tiger salamander (aquatic surveys);
CDFW Scientific Collecting Permits (SCP), Project -specific, for: SMUD (#20023-002), Balch &
Helms (#20023-002), and Kern [#21084-001) for northwestern pond turtle, foothill yellow -legged
frog, Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog, and/or western spadefoot; and
CDFW Memorandum of Understanding for Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog, foothill yellow-
legged frog, California tiger salamander, giant garter snake, and Alameda whipsnake.
Mr. Brumo is a fisheries biologist with Stillwater
Sciences with 23 years of experience working on
projects aimed at managing and restoring anadromous
fish populations in diverse watersheds across the West.
Mr. Brumo holds the following permits:
• USFWS Section 10(a)(1)(A) Permit #ES98536C for
California freshwater shrimp; and
• CDFW Incidental Take Permit (2081(a))/Memorandum of Understanding for California freshwater
shrimp.
DBS&A
Dr. Tolley is a hydrogeologist with 15 years of
professional experience. He specializes in groundwater
hydrology, groundwater resources, numerical modeling,
contaminant transport in groundwater, environmental
database management systems, workflow automation,
and GIS analysis and mapping.
Ms. Nicholls is a hydrogeologist and field technician at
DBS&A with 7 years of experience and a background in
hydrology and earth sciences. She holds a Master of
Science in Hydrology from the New Mexico Institute of
Mining and Technology which allowed her to gain
experience in water quality and hydrological data. She is
Holly Burger
Senior Wildlife Specialist, Stillwater
Role: Tasks 1 & 3 Support
Education: B.S., Biology, Baldwin Wallace
University
Abel Brumo
Fisheries Biologist, Stillwater
Role: Tasks 1 & 3 Support
Education: M.S., Fisheries Science,
Oregon State University
Douglas Tolley, Ph.D., PG
Hydrogeologist, DBS&A
Role: Task 3 Lead
Education: Ph.D., Hydrology, University of
California, Davis
Phoebe Nicholls
Hydrogeologist, DBS&A
Role: Task 3 Support
Education: MS, Hydrology, New Mexico
Institute of Mining and Technology
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skilled in ArcGIS Pro, Python, Applied Environmental Statistics, R Statistical Software, Aquarius, and
Ambient Water Quality Monitoring Systems.
Mr. Buczek is an accomplished software developer and
Information Technology (IT) professional with more than
24 years of varied accomplishments, participation in
numerous technologies and involvement across all
aspects of software development, including numerous
geo-centric web applications. Mr. Buczek developed a
database management system called GLA-Data for our
parent company, Geo-Logic Associates, Inc. (GLA). He has customized GLA -Data for 17 clients (7
water resources specific) and continues to maintain and add features to the system. He provides
database support for the Sierra Valley Groundwater Management District GSP and is the Senior
Software Developer responsible for all front-end and back -end aspects related to the web applications
associated with development of the DMS for the Owens Valley GSP and Fillmore and Piru Basins GSP.
UCCE
Dr. Garza Diaz is the UC Cooperative Extension
(UCCE) Advisor for Water Quality, Quantity, and
Climate Change in Mendocino and Lake Counties.
She holds a Ph.D. in Hydrologic Sciences from the
University of California, Davis, specializing in water
policy and management under climate change. As a
UCCE advisor, Dr. Garza has launched the water
and climate change program in Mendocino and
Lake Counties, supporting projects that integrate water management under climate change, sustainable
groundwater practices, well monitoring, instream and environmental flows, extreme climate events like
drought and floods, and the resilience of social-ecological systems. She has built strong relationships
with Tribal Nations, including the Sherwood Band of Pomo Indians and Middletown Rancheria, as well
as local governments such as the Mendocino County Boards of Supervisors, the Mendocino County
Department of Transportation, and the Ukiah Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency. She also
collaborates with water suppliers and districts, including Russian River Flood Control, Potter Valley
Irrigation District, and the Mendocino County Resource Conservation District, along with grassroots
organizations.
Gregory Buczek
Database Architect, DBS&A
Role: Task 3 Support
Education: BA, Psychology and Sociology,
Purdue University
Laura E. Garza Diaz, Ph.D.
Area Water Quality, Quantity, and Climate
Change Advisor, UCCE
Role: Tasks 1 & 2 Support
Education: Ph.D., Hydrologic Sciences,
University of California, Davis
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Bold: Task Lead
1: LWA
2: Stillwater Sciences
3: DBSA
4: UCCE
3.1 Organizational Chart
Our proposed approach brings together a multidisciplinary team of hydrologists, ecologists, and modeling
specialists who combine the technical expertise required for GDE and ISW assessment with extensive
experience in Russian River watershed. The organizational chart presented in Figure 1 below provides
an overview of our team structure, emphasizing our capabilities in the three core areas identified in the
RFP. Team members have successfully implemented similar studies for GSAs throughout California and
have specific experience with salmonid habitat assessment in the watershed. Our Team qualifications are
further described in Section 3.0 and Appendix 1. Resumes.
Figure 1. Organizational Structure of the LWA Team
AUDRA BARDLSEY, PH.D. 1
PROJECT MANAGER
LAURA FOGLIA, PH.D. 1
WILL LEWIS 1
TECHNICAL ADVISORS
Will Lewis1,
Gerald O’Neill1, PG, CHG
Jeffrey Walker1, PE
Andrew Calderwood1, Ph.D.
Camille Woicekowska1
Ben Melechin1
Chris Dory1
Laura Garza Diaz4, Ph.D.
Christian Braudrick2, Ph.D.
Bruce Orr2, Ph.D.
Esther Adelstein2
AJ Keith2
Holly Burger2
Abel Brumo2
Laura Garza Diaz4, Ph.D.
1. Monitoring Plan Development 2. Water Resource Management
Recommendations
Will Lewis1,
Gerald O’Neill1, PG, CHG
Jeffrey Walker1, PE
Andrew Calderwood1, Ph.D.
Camille Woicekowska1
Ben Melechin1
Chris Dory1
Laura Garza Diaz4, Ph.D.
3. Program Management & Grant
Compliance
Douglas Tolley3, Ph.D., PG
Phoebe Nicholls3
Greg Buczek3
Christian Braudrick2, Ph.D.
Bruce Orr2, Ph.D.
Esther Adelstein2
AJ Keith2
Holly Burger2
Abel Brumo2
Ukiah Valley GSA
TASKS
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3.2 Project understanding
UVBGSA has initiated this project to advance the understanding of ISWs and GDEs in the URR
watershed. Funded by the CDFW Watershed Grant Program, this study directly addresses the UVBGSA’s
obligations under SGMA and enhances the implementation of its GSP, which was approved by DWR in
July 2023 with recommended corrective actions.
This project presents a timely opportunity to improve scientific understanding of groundwater-surface
water interactions, particularly as they relate to sensitive fish species, instream flows, and long-term water
management decisions. By integrating geochemical, biological, and physical monitoring with hydrological
modeling, this study will characterize the spatial extent, seasonal timing, and ecological impacts of ISW
under varied climate and management scenarios. The resulting insights will support adaptive water
management strategies, helping UVBGSA fulfill its regulatory obligations under SGMA while safeguarding
groundwater resources for both human and ecological needs.
Advancing UVBGSA’s GSP and DWR Recommended Corrective Actions
This study builds upon and refines the original ISW and GDE analysis conducted for the 2021 GSP,
which was based on limited data and relied on groundwater elevation as a proxy for surface water
connectivity. While this approach provided an initial characterization, both the GSP and DWR’s 2023 Staff
Report1 identified the need for field-based validation and expanded monitoring to improve the accuracy of
ISW and GDE assessments.
Since 2021, UVBGSA and its partners have made significant strides in addressing these data gaps. The
monitoring network has been expanded, increasing spatial coverage and frequency of groundwater level
measurements, and a newly completed thalweg survey of the mainstem Russian River has enhanced
understanding of groundwater-surface water interactions. These improvements provide a strong
foundation for a more refined, field-validated assessment of ISW and GDEs in the Basin. The April 25,
2024 Board of Directors meeting further reinforced the urgency of these efforts, with the Technical
Advisory Committee (TAC) prioritizing enhancing the monitoring network, conducting a Well Inventory
Study, and initiating an ISW Study as key actions to be completed ahead of the 2027 Periodic Evaluation .
Since that meeting, UVBGSA has instrumented three additional Representative Monitoring Point wells,
initiated Phase I of the Well Inventory Study, and successfully secured CDFW grant funding to support
this ISW/GDE Study. These proactive measures offset the need for additional ratepayer funding while
ensuring that SGMA compliance remains on track .
Leveraging the UVIHM & WaterSMART Project for Hydrological Modeling and Scenario Analysis
This project will directly benefit from and build upon the UVIHM, which the LWA Team is currently refining
through the WaterSMART-funded project, “Creating Long-Term Water Supply Resiliency for Ukiah Valley
and Upper Russian River”, led by the California Land Stewardship Institute (CLSI). The ongoing UVIHM
improvements provide a critical opportunity to integrate new ISW/GDE data from this study into predictive
modeling efforts, ensuring that groundwater-surface water interactions are more accurately represented
in future scenario analyses. An overview of UVBGSA’s and CLSI’s groundwater level monitoring and
stream gage networks is presented in Figure 2.
Through the WaterSMART project, CLSI has installed water level sensors in three wells outside the
formal GSA network, collected extensive thalweg data for the Upper Russian River, and made
1 California Department of Water Resources: Sustainable Groundwater Management Office , Ukiah Valley Basin GSP Determination,
July 27, 2023, https://ukiahvalleygroundwater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023-07-27-Ukiah-Valley-Basin-GSP-
Determination-v2.pdf.
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Figure 2. UVBGSA and CLSI Groundwater Level and Streamflow Monitoring Networks
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enhancements to stream routing within
the UVIHM. These advancements have
significantly improved the model’s ability
to simulate surface water-aquifer
interactions, but data gaps remain,
particularly regarding mainstem cross-
section details and Western Hills
streamflow characteristics. This ISW/GDE
Study provides a unique opportunity to
close these gaps through expanded field
data collection, including the installation
of two new stream gages, up to ten
groundwater level sensors with telemetry,
and shallow piezometers funded through
an $80,000 allocation.
The synergy between this study and the
ongoing UVIHM refinements will enable
UVBGSA to run management and climate scenarios that assess ISW/GDE response to changing water
availability, reduced surface water inputs, and future groundwater management strategies . These
analyses will directly inform the development of new SMC for ISW depletion, addressing a major
corrective action identified by DWR in their 2023 Staff Report.
Strengthening Salmonid Habitat and Instream Flow Protection
Beyond advancing groundwater management objectives, this study will provide critical insights to support
salmonid conservation efforts in the Upper Russian River and its fish -bearing tributaries. ISWs and GDEs
play an essential role in maintaining instream flows, which are vital for Chinook salmon and steelhead
migration, spawning, and juvenile rearing. However, data gaps remain in identifying when and where
surface water-groundwater disconnections occur, especially during dry-season low-flow periods when
salmonids are most vulnerable.
This project will use high-resolution geochemical, biological, and hydrological monitoring to map seasonal
patterns of groundwater discharge and aquifer-surface water exchanges, allowing for more targeted
conservation efforts. The expanded monitoring network will provide essential data to support long-term
ecological planning, conservation land acquisitions, and instream flow protection measures. These
outcomes will directly inform regional water management decisions, ensuring that groundwater
sustainability measures align with broader ecosystem protection efforts.
The Opportunity
By integrating field data collection, hydrological modeling, and ecosystem assessments, this project will
establish a strong scientific foundation for improving ISW and GDE understanding and management in
the Ukiah Valley Basin. The study responds directly to SGMA requirements, DWR recommended
corrective actions, and stakeholder priorities, while leveraging ongoing UVIHM enhancements and the
WaterSMART project’s scenario modeling capabilities. This effort will transition the ISW/GDE analysis
from a proxy-based approach to a data-driven, field-validated understanding, allowing UVBGSA to make
more informed, adaptive water management decisions. Additionally, by supporting instream flow
improvements, identifying priority conservation areas, and strengthening the scientific foundation for
SMC, this study will contribute to long-term water resource resilience and salmonid habitat protection in
the URR watershed.
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4.0 PROPOSED SCOPE OF WORK
This project will follow a phased methodology grounded in both robust desktop analyses and targeted
field investigations, with a strong emphasis on stakeholder collaboration and scientific rigor. The objective
is to improve understanding of ISWs, GDEs, and associated fish habitats within the URR watershed,
while also enhancing the UVIHM and addressing critical data gaps and agency recommendations.
Task 1: Monitoring Plan Development
To effectively assess and monitor surface water and groundwater interactions in the Ukiah Valley Basin,
this study will employ a multi-faceted, transdisciplinary approach that integrates biological surveys,
hydrological assessments, and advanced geochemical monitoring techniques. By combining field-based
research with geochemical tracers, continuous data collection, and stakeholder engagement, this plan will
establish a comprehensive monitoring network that enhances our understanding of hydrologic
connectivity and informs sustainable water management decisions for the Upper Russian River and its
key fish-bearing tributaries. This task will be carried out in close collaboration with the Ukiah Valley
Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA), the City of Ukiah, Tribal representatives, CDFW, and other
stakeholders to ensure that the resulting expanded surface water monitoring network effectively fills
existing data gaps and provides critical information for managing ISWs and GDEs.
Phase 1: Desktop Investigations and Community Input
The first phase will focus on desktop analyses aimed at refining our understanding of ISW and GDE
distribution using updated datasets, including the extended UVIHM, newly mapped groundwater elevation
contours, recent stream network improvements, and mainstem thalweg survey data. These analyses will
generate updated ISW and GDE maps, summarize key geospatial data (e.g., stream slope, drainage
area, confluences), and identify priority stream reaches that likely support both ISW and GDEs with
adequate subwatershed representation.
Additional datasets will be compiled to further refine stream reach selection, including:
• Fish-bearing stream data from NMFS, CDFW, and DWR, cross-checked against existing
literature and reports on fish passage barriers and viability in the Upper Russian River.
• Existing surface water and groundwater monitoring networks operated by the GSA, partner
agencies, and researchers in the Upper Russian River watershed to ensure that new monitoring
locations complement and enhance ongoing efforts.
A potential deliverable for Phase 1 is presented in Figure 3. This site prioritization for the Napa River was
determined by ranking each potential site by the amount of hydrologic data (0 -3 points), the ecological
importance of the site (a function of the number of species and life stages that are likely to use the site)
(0-6 pts), and site uniqueness and proximity to a stream restoration site (0-1 pts) yielding a clear visual
representation of how candidate locations compare.
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Figure 3. Site Prioritization for the Napa River Subbasin
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Findings from Stillwater Sciences, including previously identified GDE locations and other relevant
ecological resources will be integrated into the analysis to ensure that the monitoring plan builds on and
complements existing scientific efforts. Each potential stream reach will be evaluated for feasibility,
considering factors such as landowner access, logistical constraints, and health and safety
considerations. In coordination with the GSA Board of Directors, the TAC, and the Mendocino County
Resource Conservation District, LWA will incorporate local knowledge to refine the list of candidate
stream reaches. This preliminary list will be presented at a public meeting to solicit feedback from
community members, Tribal representatives, and other stakeholders. UCCE will facilitate this
engagement process, leveraging their existing outreach programs and experience in organizing public
meetings related to water resource management in the Basin.
Phase 2: Site Selection, Monitoring Plan Development, and Instrumentation
Following stakeholder engagement and feasibility assessments, a final set of stream reaches will be
selected for detailed investigation. This selection process will ensure that the monitoring network
effectively captures ISW and GDE dynamics, provides adequate spatial coverage, and integrates with
existing surface and groundwater monitoring efforts. The refined list of sites will balance scientific
priorities with practical considerations such as landowner access, logistical constraints, and the need for
data continuity within the Upper Russian River Basin.
A key component of this phase will involve conducting comprehensive biological surveys, including fish
counts, across the selected tributaries in the UVB. These surveys will be designed to capture seasonal
variations in aquatic habitat, assess fish populations, and provide essential ecological data to evaluate
how groundwater-surface water interactions impact sensitive species. Using a combination of aerial
imagery, drone-based imaging, and field-based fish count methods, including electrofishing, visual
surveys, and eDNA sampling, the study will generate a detailed picture of fish distribution, habitat
connectivity, and potential passage barriers. This information will complement hydrological and
geochemical data, strengthening the ability to assess ISW and GDE responses to environmental
changes.
To enhance the monitoring network, continuous water level and temperature sensors will be installed in
up to ten wells, ensuring data collection in areas that are critical for understanding groundwater -surface
water interactions. These wells will be strategically selected based on their proximity to ISW locations,
their ability to fill gaps in the existing network, and their relevance to GDE sustainability assessments. The
placement of these sensors will allow for real-time data collection that captures fluctuations in
groundwater levels and temperature over time, providing a high-resolution dataset that can inform water
management decisions. The installation of these sensors will be coordinated with the City of Ukiah and
the GSA, ensuring that the necessary landowner access agreements are secured before deployment.
In addition to hydrological monitoring, a geochemical assessment will be conducted to refine the
understanding of groundwater influx to surface waters. This effort will utilize Radon-222 time-series
sampling along selected stream reaches to detect seasonal changes in groundwater discharge. The
study will also incorporate stable isotope analyses and major ion chemistry to differentiate groundwater
sources and quantify their contributions to streamflow. Targeted push point sampling of subsurface
sediments will further help identify groundwater upwelling in gaining stream reaches. These geochemical
techniques will provide an independent validation of model predictions and offer insight into the variability
of groundwater-surface water interactions across different hydrologic conditions.
Upon completing the field investigations and data collection, LWA will develop a comprehensive
Monitoring Plan and Baseline Monitoring Report. This document will outline the methodologies used in
the study, summarize key findings from biological and geochemical assessments, and provide
recommendations for long-term monitoring strategies. The report will also serve as a foundation for
adaptive water management, ensuring that monitoring efforts remain relevant and effective in the face of
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evolving climate conditions and water resource challenges. To facilitate ongoing integration with regional
water management efforts, LWA will ensure that all analytical tools, field data, and documentation are
made available to the GSA and technical staff responsible for groundwater sustainability planning. The
monitoring network and datasets developed through this study will directly support UVIHM calibration, the
refinement of the Groundwater Sustainability Plan, and future decision-making processes regarding ISW
and GDE protections. Following a public presentation of the draft recommendations, stakeholder
feedback will be incorporated into the final monitoring strategy, ensuring that the project remains
responsive to local priorities and management objectives.
Examples of four potential deliverables for Phase 2 from the LWA Team’s previous work are presented in
Figures 4 through 6. Figure 4 presents the results of GDE mapping for Fillmore-Piru developed using a
recent vegetation map from CDFW coupled with a review of the plant associations in the literature to
determine which associations were likely associated with groundwater. The connected and disconnected
stream reaches were identified by Balance Hydrologics during GSP development. Figure 5 presents an
aquatic species distribution for the Eel River, which was assessed using USFWS, NOAA, and CDFW
databases. Critical riffles were identified in the field by Stillwater Sciences on a previous study. Figure 6
presents a visual representation of radon activity by reach in the Scott River watershed where a higher
radon activity suggests a higher contribution of groundwater to surface waters. Figure 7 presents a visual
representation of evidence suggesting a reach of interest is gaining a reach in the Scott River Watershed
based on PushPoint samples and radon activities.B
y combining biological assessments, geochemical monitoring, and stakeholder collaboration, this phase
of the project will establish a robust scientific foundation for understanding and protecting groundwater -
dependent ecosystems and fish habitats in the Ukiah Valley Basin. The insights gained will inform long -
term strategies for sustainable water resource management, ensuring that ISW and GDEs remain
resilient in the face of changing environmental conditions.
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Figure 4. Groundwater Dependent Ecosystem Units in the Fillmore and Piru Basins
Figure 5. Aquatic Species distribution for the Eel River Groundwater Basin
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Figure 6. Visual Representation of Radon Activity by Reach in the Scott River Watershed
Figure 7. Visual Representation of Evidence Suggesting a Gaining Reach in the Scott River
Watershed
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Task 2: Water Resource Management Recommendations
This project will employ a phased approach to refine the UVIHM, evaluate groundwater-surface water
interactions under various management and climate scenarios, and develop actionable recommendations
for sustainable water resource management. By leveraging recent modeling efforts, targeted field data
collection, and stakeholder engagement, the project will ensure that water management decisions
affecting ISWs and GDEs are based on the best available scientific analyses.
Phase 1: Enhancing UVIHM and Running Management and Climate Scenarios
LWA originally developed the UVIHM during the Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) process and has
an in-depth understanding of its capabilities and limitations. Since early 2024, LWA has been working
closely with CLSI under the URR WaterSMARTs project to enhance the model, particularly in assessing
the effects of reduced surface water availability due to the Potter Valley Project decommissioning and
long-term climate change. These efforts have already resulted in key updates, and this project will build
upon that progress by refining UVIHM’s ability to characterize stream-aquifer interactions, particularly in
tributary reaches that serve as critical fish habitats.
Data collected as part of Task 1 will significantly improve model calibration by refining key hydrological
parameters such as streambed conductivity, aquifer conductivity, and tributary inflows, which remain
poorly constrained. In addition, field-based geomorphological surveys will improve representation of
tributary stream channels, including their width, slope, and physical characteristics, allowing for more
precise predictions of groundwater-surface water connectivity and the spatial distribution of GDEs.
Geochemical data including Radon -222, stable isotopes of water, and major ion concentrations will
further validate model predictions by identifying the timing and locations of surface water-groundwater
interactions. The LWA Team will also incorporate insights from ongoing GSA efforts to enhance the
accuracy of UVIHM ahead of running scenario simulations. Addressing a key data gap identified in the
GSP, the Team will conduct cross-sectional surveys at critical locations such as tributary confluences and
stream gages, complementing recent mainstem thalweg mapping carried out under the WaterSMARTs
project. Additional refinements will be made using well location and construction data obtained through
the GSA’s ongoing Well Inventory Study, which has already improved model representation of municipal
wells and, to a lesser extent, agricultural wells. By integrating these datasets, LWA will further enhance
UVIHM’s ability to assess groundwater use impacts on surface water resources.
In addition to model improvements, the LWA Team will conduct targeted scenario simulations to evaluate
the response of tributary ISW and GDEs to different climate and management conditions. As part of this
effort, the Team has already engaged with DWR to obtain updated climate projections for the Upper
Russian River Watershed, ensuring that model simulations reflect the most current hydrological
expectations. Having met with key Basin stakeholders – including the State Water Board, City of Ukiah,
Willow County Water District, and Russian River Flood Control – LWA is well-positioned to refine its
representation of historical and future surface water availability and integrate new information regarding
the Potter Valley Project decommissioning as it becomes available.
These modeling efforts will also examine the effects of potential water management strategies, such as
the construction of off-stream storage ponds to capture high winter flows, surface water curtailments, and
shifts in groundwater pumping across different areas of the Basin. Given the similarities between the
CDFW ISW/GDE project objectives and those of the WaterSMARTs project, LWA will be able to efficiently
build upon existing scenario work to develop tailored simulations that provide detailed insights into future
ISW and GDE conditions under changing hydrological regimes.
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Phase 2: Development of Recommendations and Public Engagement
Following the completion of model refinements and scenario simulations, LWA will synthesize key
findings into a comprehensive set of water resource management recommendations designed to
minimize impacts on sensitive fish habitats while ensuring sustainable groundwater use. This process will
be carried out in close collaboration with CDFW, the GSA, Tribes, and other stakeholders to ensure that
the recommendations align with ongoing regional water management efforts.
As part of this effort, LWA will present preliminary findings at a UCCE-facilitated public meeting, where
stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide feedback on draft recommendations. Following this
engagement, the Team will document public input and refine its recommendations to ensure they are
both scientifically robust and adaptable to future water management needs. To support long -term
implementation, LWA will also take proactive steps to ensure seamless integration of analytical tools and
datasets with ongoing GSA efforts. This will include sharing all modeling refinements, field data, and
calibration methodologies with technical staff involved in GSA-led groundwater sustainability initiatives,
ensuring that potential challenges related to version control, documentation, and data consistency are
addressed. Additionally, the Team will provide technical support for GSA staff to facilitate the continued
refinement of UVIHM and GSP, ensuring that water resource management strategies remain adaptive as
new information becomes available.
By combining state of the science hydrological modeling, high-resolution field data collection, and an
inclusive stakeholder-driven process, this project will establish a strong scientific foundation for informed
decision-making in the Ukiah Valley Basin. The outcomes will directly support regional water resource
planning efforts and enhance the resilience of ISW, GDEs, and fisheries under evolving climate and water
management conditions.
Task 3: Program Management and Grant Compliance
Effective execution of the Upper Russian River GDE/ISW Study requires strong project management,
transparent communication, and full compliance with grant requirements in addition to sound technical
work. Task 3 is designed to ensure that the study is cond ucted efficiently, meets the standards of the
CDFW Watershed Grant Program, and remains responsive to stakeholder priorities throughout its
duration. A robust project management framework will be implemented to maintain clear scheduling,
milestone tracking, and internal coordination across multiple technical tasks. The consultant team will
establish regular check-ins, document reviews, and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) protocols to
ensure that all deliverables adhere to CDFW requirements and project objectives. These quality control
measures will minimize risks, ensure technical accuracy, and provide early identification of potential
challenges to maintain project momentum. Coordination with the UVBGSA, its consultants, and partners
will be a key aspect of this effort, allowing for real -time adjustments and collaborative decision-making as
new findings emerge.
As part of this task, the LWA Team will also develop a comprehensive Data Management Plan (DMP)
using CDFW’s standardized form. This plan will define metadata standards, establish data validation
protocols, and outline strategies for long-term data storage and accessibility. The DMP will cover a range
of datasets, including groundwater level readings, isotope analyses, streamflow measurements, and
biological survey results, ensuring that data integrity is maintained across all project activities. The plan
will be submitted to CDFW early in the project and will serve as a foundational reference for data
collection, processing, and reporting. A critical consideration for data management is the lack of a
centralized Data Management System (DMS) within the GSA to house datasets collected under GSP
implementation efforts and annual reporting. While data are currently organized, they are not centrally
accessible in a streamlined system. This project presents an opportunity to lay the foundation for a more
comprehensive DMS that integrates not only the new datasets collected under this study but also
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historical and ongoing monitoring efforts across the Basin. The consultant team will work with the GSA to
explore scalable solutions that enhance data accessibility, visualization, and long-term usability. Figure 8
presents an online interactive mapping interface for a DMS that members of the LWA Team developed
for the Fillmore and Piru Groundwater Subbasins as part of an Interconnected Surface Water Analysis.
Figure 8. Interactive Map Interface from a DMS showing well data compiled as part of an
Interconnected Surface Water Analysis for the Santa Clara River and its Tributaries in the Fillmore
and Piru Groundwater Basins
Stakeholder and UVBGSA engagement are another key element of this task, ensuring that the project
remains collaborative, transparent, and aligned with community priorities. In addition to the two UCCE-
facilitated stakeholder and community engagement meetings described in Tasks 1 and 2, the LWA Team
will provide regular updates to the UVBGSA Board and TAC. The LWA Team will coordinate with the
UVBGSA General Manager to ensure that progress reports and draft materials for review are delivered at
regularly scheduled Board and TAC meetings to reduce the meeting burden on UVBGSA members, and
to streamline coordination with ongoing management efforts. The proposed project manager and other
key team members live within a two-hour drive of Ukiah. They are prepared and committed to attending
UVBGSA meetings in person if required. Presentation materials for community and UVBGSA meetings
will be tailored to both technical and non-technical audiences, ensuring that complex findings are
communicated in an accessible and engaging manner. In addition to sharing information, the LWA Team
will actively incorporate stakeholder and UVBGSA feedback into project refinements, ensuring that the
study remains responsive to local concerns and management needs, strengthening its relevance and
applicability. By integrating this feedback with scientific analyses, the study will remain responsive to local
concerns and management needs, strengthening its relevance and applicability.
Finally, the LWA Team will support the UVBGSA with all aspects of grant reporting and invoicing,
ensuring that the project remains fully compliant with CDFW requirements. This will include the
preparation of quarterly or milestone-based progress reports, tracking of deliverables, and compilation of
financial documentation in accordance with CDFW’s grant compliance guidelines. The consultant team
will maintain clear records of expenditures, task completion, and project challenges, allowing for
transparent project administration. Coordination with UVBGSA staff will ensure that all financial and
technical reports align with CDFW expectations, minimizing administrative burdens and ensuring
continued grant eligibility. By implementing a structured project management approach, refining data
management strategies, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring full grant compliance, this task will provide
the foundation for the successful execution of the Upper Russian River GDE/ISW Study.
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5.0 SCHEDULE
The LWA Team has developed a project schedule that aligns with the UVBGSA's timeline requirements, with work commencing in Ma y 2025 and concluding by March 1, 2028. Our schedule
reflects a phased approach that accounts for seasonal considerations essential for field surveys, appropriate sequencing of monitoring activities, and adequate time for stakeholder engagement
and review processes.
The proposed schedule ensures timely completion of all deliverables while building in sufficient flexibility to accommodate p otential adjustments in response to field conditions, stakeholder input, or
other project developments. Our timeline emphasizes efficient coordination among team members and with UVBGSA staff to maintain continuous progress. Critical path elements have bee n
carefully mapped to ensure that the project maintains momentum while allowing for thorough quality assurance at each stage of work.
Figure 9. Project Schedule
Contract Start/End
2028 Deliverable/Task Development
Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Deliverable Submitted
Contract Dates UVBGSA Deliverable Review Period
Stakeholder/Tribal Meeting
Task 1 Monitoring Plan Development
Phase 1. Desktop Investigations and Community Input
Phase 2: Site Selection, Monitoring Plan Development, Instrumentation, Baseline
Monitoring and Reporting
Task 2: Water Resource Management Recommendations
Phase 1: Enhancing UVIHM and Running Management and Climate Scenarios
Phase 2: Development of Recommendations and Public Engagement
Task 3: Program Management and Grant Compliance
Note: The LWA Team will coordinate with the UVBGSA General Manager to provide updates and submit materials for review at regularly scheduled Board and TAC Meetings
Dates of Service
Deliverables include: 1) Monitoring Plan in 2026-Q2 2) Baseline Monitoring Report in 2027-Q4 3) Data Management Plan in 2028-Q1 4) UVIHM Model Updates and Scenario Evaluation
Summary Technical Memo in 2028-Q1
Tasks 2025 2026 2027
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6.0 COST PROPOSAL
The LWA Team’s approach emphasizes cost efficiency while delivering comprehensive, high-quality services that meet all requirements outlined in the RFP. We have carefully structured our budget to align with the project objectives and
deliverables, with appropriate allocation of resources for each task. Our cost proposal reflects our extensive experience with similar SGMA-related studies and includes all necessary personnel, equipment, field work, monitoring, modeling, and
reporting tasks. We have factored in optimal resource allocation to maximize value while ensuring thorough coverage of all project elements. The LWA Team is committed to delivering exceptional results within the proposed budget framework
while maintaining flexibility to address evolving project needs. The quote provided is valid for 120 days following submission on April 7, 2025.
Table 2. Cost Proposal
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6.1 LWA TEAM RATES
The following table presents the fixed rates for all staff on the LWA Team, as presented in Table 2 above.
The LWA Team acknowledges that the rates shall remain fixed for the duration of the contract.
Table 3. LWA Team Rate Schedule
Firm Classification Rate
LWA Vice President $332
Senior Hydrologist $200
Senior Scientist I $261
Project Engineer/ Scientist II-B $215
Project Engineer/ Scientist I-B $171
Project Scientist I-C $146
Stillwater Sciences Senior Geomorphologist $208
Principal/ Senior Ecologist $266
Hydrologist $156
Senior Aquatic Ecologist $218
Senior Wildlife Biologist $234
Fisheries Biologist $176
DBS&A Project Professional II $211
Staff Professional III $175
Principal Professional I $288
UCCE UCCE Advisor $97
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7.0 CONFLICTS
The LWA Team confirms that no conflict of interest would prevent our participation in this solicitation or
contract.
8.0 REFERENCES
LWA's extensive portfolio demonstrates our commitment to excellence across diverse watersheds,
regulatory frameworks, and stakeholder environments. The following references highlight our proven
expertise in monitoring plan development and water resource management recommendations.
Reference 1. Creating Long-Term Water Supply Resiliency for Ukiah Valley and Upper
Russian River
LWA
Client Name California Land Stewardship Institute
Years of Service 2024-Present
References Laurel Marcus, Science Director
550 Gateway Dr #104, Napa, CA 94558
(707) 253-1226; laurelm@fishfriendlyfarming.org
Chelsea Jimenez Ph.D., Director of Specialty Projects and Research,
(707) 253-1226; chelseaj@fishfriendlyfarming.org
Description of Services See Project 1 above.
Reference 2. Scott Valley Irrigation District (SVID) Recharge Project
LWA
Client Name Scott Valley Irrigation District
Years of Service 2021-Present
Reference Matt Parker, Program Manager
1312 Fairlane Road, Yreka, CA 96097
(530) 842-8005; mparker@co.siskiyou.ca.us
Description of Services See Project 2 above.
Reference 3. Napa Valley Subbasin ISW and GDE Workplan and Implementation
Stillwater Sciences
Client Name Napa County Groundwater Sustainability Agency
Years of Service 2024-Present
Reference Jamison Crosby, Natural Resources Conservation Manager
1195 Third Street, Napa, CA 94559
(707) 253-4823; Jamison.Crosby@countyofnapa.org
Description of Services See Project 3 above.
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9.0 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
9.1 Insurance
LWA verifies that the minimum coverage of $1,000,000 in commercial general liability, workers'
compensation, and automobiles is met and will be maintained for the duration of the contract.
9.2 Use of UVBGSA Logo
The LWA Team recognizes that the unauthorized use of the UVBGSA’s official logo is strictly prohibited.
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