The Sonoma County Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) are dedicated to monitoring and sustaining groundwater levels. To support this work, the Sonoma County GSAs are considering a range of programs and policies to sustain groundwater resources in our County. The GSAs are soliciting input from the community through a public survey (www.surveymonkey.com/r/FF7ZBZX) to inform these programs and policies. Share your input today!
Groundwater in Sonoma County is utilized by a wide variety of user groups, like municipalities, small public water systems, rural residential, agricultural, and others not connected to public water systems. Historically, groundwater has provided around 50% of total water supplies in the three areas managed by the GSAs: Petaluma Valley, Santa Rosa Plain, and Sonoma Valley. Groundwater levels have been relatively stable in the Petaluma Valley and Santa Rosa Plain subbasins, while the Sonoma Valley subbasin has areas showing long-term declining groundwater levels in the deep aquifer system.
In order to maintain or improve groundwater conditions, the GSAs are considering a range of projects, such as groundwater recharge and water recycling projects, and programs, such as flow metering and water conservation incentives, in addition to policies to better align groundwater management with land-use policies and decisions. Part of that effort includes seeking feedback on which programs are preferred. You can have a voice in Sonoma County’s groundwater management by taking this 20-question survey which will be reviewed by the GSAs as they continue to develop programs and policies. Your input is appreciated!