The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) was created to make sure that California's groundwater is managed sustainably. Groundwater is the water that sits below the Earth's surface, which many of us rely on for drinking, agriculture, and industry. Over the years, there has been more water taken out than replenished, leading to problems like dry wells and reduced water quality. SGMA ensures that groundwater is carefully managed so there will be enough water in the future for everyone.

How Does SGMA Work?

SGMA puts local agencies, called Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs), in charge of managing groundwater. These GSAs must create and follow a plan called a Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP). The goal of the plan is to make sure groundwater is being used in a way that balances what’s taken out with what’s put back in (through rainfall or other methods) within 20 years.

Key Points:

1. Local Control: Local agencies (like the Wyandotte Creek Groundwater Sustainability Agency) are in charge of making the rules and managing the groundwater in their area.
2. Sustainability: The GSA must develop a plan that prevents long-term problems like too much groundwater pumping, land sinking (subsidence), or pollution.
3. Timeline: GSAs have to reach sustainable groundwater use by 2042, but they regularly review their progress and update their plans every 5 years.
4. Public Involvement: Local communities, farmers, and other water users are encouraged to participate in the planning process to ensure that their needs are considered.

To learn more about the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGM), check out thes resources:

1. Understanding Groundwater 4-minute video: Click Here

2. SGMA story map: Click Here

3. SGMA Brochure: Click Here

4. Comprehensive Groundwater Resources Hub: Groundwater Exchange Website

Brief Overview of the SGMA Process