Water Supply Challenges and Solutions: 2022 Outlook

This session on water supply challenges and solutions for 2022 highlighted the importance of understanding and addressing groundwater sustainability under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). Experts from various sectors, shared insights on SGMA’s implementation, the critical role of Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSPs), and the need for local management. The session emphasized collaboration among farmers, environmentalists, and disadvantaged communities to achieve sustainable water use, with significant focus on recharge projects and innovative methods for groundwater storage. The challenges of managing water resources during droughts, the potential of almond orchards for groundwater recharge, and the importance of ongoing engagement with local Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) were also discussed. The panelists underscored the need for adaptive strategies, proper funding, and stakeholder involvement to ensure the long-term success of SGMA and protect California’s water resources.

After completing this course, learners will be able to:

• Understand the key components of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) and its role in promoting groundwater sustainability in California.
• Explore the importance of Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSPs) and the need for local management to meet SGMA goals.
• Recognize the significance of collaboration among farmers, environmentalists, and disadvantaged communities to achieve sustainable water use and balance competing interests.
• Analyze the challenges of managing water resources during droughts and how these challenges affect agricultural operations, particularly almond orchards.
• Learn about innovative methods for groundwater recharge and storage, including how almond orchards can contribute to groundwater sustainability efforts.
• Understand the role of Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) and the importance of ongoing engagement with local water management bodies for the effective implementation of SGMA.
• Identify adaptive strategies for addressing water shortages and ensuring long-term sustainability, including funding needs and stakeholder involvement.
• Evaluate the potential of recharge projects as a solution for addressing groundwater depletion and ensuring compliance with SGMA.
• Discuss the long-term implications of SGMA implementation on California’s agriculture and water resources, and the importance of stakeholder participation for its success.