Is the State trying to take over control of groundwater?

SGMA provides a framework for improving management of groundwater supplies by local authorities. SGMA actually limits State intervention, provided that local agencies develop and implement GSPs or Alternative Plans as required by the legislation. Under SGMA, local agencies now have tools and authorities some agencies previously lacked to manage for sustainability. Under a limited set of circumstances, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) may step in to help protect local groundwater resources. The process of SWRCB only occurs if local efforts to form a GSA or develop and implement a viable GSP or Alternative Plan are not successful. In the Mission Creek Subbasin, we have two approved GSAs working together with Mission Springs Water District (MSWD) to manage the subbasin as provided for in the approved Alternative Plan.