What did the legislation signed in 2014 create in regards to groundwater oversight?

The legislation signed in 2014 significantly reorganized the approach to groundwater management in California by establishing a framework for local agencies to take control and develop management plans for groundwater resources. This was a response to the increasing challenges of groundwater depletion and the need for sustainable water usage, especially in light of ongoing drought conditions.

By empowering local agencies, the legislation aimed to ensure that groundwater management was tailored to the specific needs and conditions of different regions throughout the state. Local agencies are tasked with developing sustainable groundwater management plans that address issues such as water quality, depletion, and the impact of groundwater on surface water resources.

This decentralized approach allows for more responsive and adaptable management practices, promoting collaboration among stakeholders, including farmers, urban water users, and environmental advocates. The establishment of these local management frameworks is crucial for achieving long-term sustainability and addressing the complex and varied challenges facing California’s groundwater resources.