Kern Subbasin Approves Final Groundwater Sustainability Plan

BAKERSFIELD, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Kern County Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) have finalized and approved a coordinated Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP), endorsed by all 20 GSAs. The adopted plan addresses deficiencies previously identified by the California Department of Water Resources and the State Water Resources Control Board. Originally drafted in May 2024, the final version was revised based on feedback from the State Water Resources Control Board staff and public comments. The plan can be found at https://kerngsp.com/gsp-documents/.

Key components of the plan include a coordination agreement among all 20 GSAs in the Kern County Subbasin, a robust domestic well mitigation program, and extensive improvements in technical areas like water quality and subsidence monitoring. All of these enhancements will ensure the sustainable management of groundwater resources in Kern County and avoid potentially undesirable results from excessive groundwater pumping.

“We are very well-coordinated and worked together to address all deficiencies identified by the State, and I am extremely pleased with the collaborative approach that produced this unified plan,” said Derek Yurosek, chair of the Coordination Committee for Kern County Subbasin.

There has been significant effort put into public outreach and transparency regarding the plan. Efforts included the development of a website as a source for public information, targeted workshops with key stakeholder groups, and informational materials distributed at public events such as the Water Day at the Kern County Fair, water district events, community services district events, and more.

The plan, which is supported by 35 water agencies and community service districts within the Kern County Subbasin, includes the revised sustainable management criteria (SMCs) while reflecting a collaborative approach and a clear path towards achieving long-term sustainability.

“We are proud that the 2024 Kern County Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Plan is a unified document developed using the best available science that will guide us towards a sustainable future for all, including our disadvantaged communities. Being a small CSD in a disadvantaged area with a seat at the table, we feel represented and protected. We urge the State Water Resources Control Board to approve this plan and support its implementation,” added Raul Barraza, Jr., General Manager, Arvin Community Services District.