ACWA Set to Release Policy Framework on Groundwater on Monday

ACWA is set to release a major policy document on groundwater management Monday, April 4. The document, “Sustainability from the Ground Up: A Framework for Groundwater Management in California,” provides an in-depth look at current efforts to manage groundwater basins in California and recommends proactive steps to advance sustainable management.

The document was developed over 18 months by a task force of ACWA members and groundwater managers with extensive regional input and review. It highlights examples of successful local groundwater management programs around the state, identifies impediments to success at the local level, and recommends specific actions and policies to help ensure the sustainability of California’s locally managed groundwater resources.

As the Framework notes, California has a long history of managing groundwater resources through locally controlled programs. Though many of these programs have been very effective, the array of challenges on the horizon will demand even more of local agencies and require a greater commitment to sustainable management – especially as California relies more and more on groundwater as surface water deliveries continue to be constrained.

In conjunction with the release of the Framework, ACWA will host a briefing the same day, April 4, in Sacramento. More information on the briefing may be found here. The briefing will be video recorded and available for viewing later that day at the same link.

The Framework and Executive Summary will be available for download at www.acwa.com the morning of April 4.