Newsom Executive Order requires GSAs approve new well permits, MAGSA committed to quick approvals on behalf of landowners 

In response to extreme and continued drought, Governor Newsom signed Executive Order N-7-22 on March 28, 2022. The directive outlines orders for statewide response to drought and water shortages, including a requirement that no well permits may be approved by permitting agencies until first approved by the Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) managing the area where the well is proposed. Read a memorandum from MAGSA’s General Manager on Executive Order N-7-22 below:

The seven GSAs in the Kings Subbasin, including MAGSA, are working quickly with the County of Fresno to respond to the order and develop a streamlined process for well approvals to avoid permit delays for landowners. When a new permit application comes in, the County will forward the application along with a simple PDF form for the GSA to check off and sign for approval. MAGSA is committed to reviewing permit applications and signing off as quickly as possible to avoid delays for our landowners as we enter summer irrigation months.

Permits requiring GSA approval include any new wells producing greater than two acre-feet annually, and any alterations to existing wells that require a permit. Permits for domestic wells, considered “de minimus”, will not require GSA approval.

It is not expected that this process will cause delay or prohibition of new wells for MAGSA landowners. MAGSA is doing everything it can to implement the executive order in a way that causes minimal to no interruption to the landowners it serves.

If you have questions or concerns regarding Executive Order N-7-22, contact General Manager Matt Hurley at mhurley@mcmullinarea.org or 559-515-3339.