Gary Petersen, Salinas Public Works Director

The new SGMA law in 2014 requires all California groundwater basins to be returned to a sustainable condition. They will need to be maintained at levels reflective of natural rainfall. Initial plans are due within a year and will include projects that can be implemented within 20 years.

Critically over-drafted water basins in our area are the Soquel, Pajaro, and northern Salinas basins. Attaining sustainability of the Salinas River Basin is complicated and expensive. Gary Petersen is a leader and central figure in this process.

What are the issues and challenges and what will this mean for the Peninsula?