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Groundwater Extraction Moratorium in Close Proximity to Critical Infrastructure

On November 5, 2024, WDWA GSA adopted a moratorium on groundwater extraction within 2.5 miles of the California Aqueduct between Mileposts 195 to 215 ("California Aqueduct Subsidence Program [CASP] Buffer Zone"). Effective December 9, 2024, groundwater extraction within the CASP Buffer Zone is prohibited unless the groundwater extraction qualifies for an exemption from the moratorium.

Full text of the Moratorium is available below:

WDWA GSA - Moratorium on GW Extraction within Close Proximity to Critical Infrastructure adopted 20241105.pdf

 

Key Details of the Moratorium:

  • Purpose: The moratorium is intended to protect the California Aqueduct from further damage caused by groundwater extraction-related subsidence, ensuring water conveyance efficiency and infrastructure safety. 
  • Affected Area: A 2.5-mile buffer zone, known as the California Aqueduct Subsidence Program (CASP) Buffer Zone, has been established around the California Aqueduct between Mileposts 195 and 215. To see if your groundwater extraction wells are within the Buffer Zone, you can enter the well(s)' GPS coordinates into the search function of this web map.
  • Board Approval for Extraction: Groundwater extractors may submit a written appeal for a temporary exemption, which will be reviewed by the WDWA GSA Board. Appeals must include justification and details about the intended extraction, and will be considered at the Board's subsequent meeting.

 

Exemptions from the Moratorium:

Certain groundwater extractions are exempt from the moratorium, including:

  • Human Health and Safety: Extraction solely for human health and safety purposes, such as fire suppression, sanitation, or de minimis domestic use (less than two acre-feet).
  • Water Quality Testing: Extractions for the purpose of water quality sampling.

 

Penalties for Non-Compliance:

Non-compliance with the moratorium will result in financial penalties:

  • Initial Penalty: $1,000, plus $500 per acre-foot of groundwater extracted within the CASP Buffer Zone.
  • Ongoing Violations: An additional penalty of $100 per day will be imposed if violations continue for more than 30 days after the initial notice. WDWA GSA may also pursue legal action immediately upon identification of any violation.