State Water Board Reaches Settlement Agreement with Grower Irrigated Lands Coalitions

Three Central Valley agricultural water coalitions have signed a settlement agreement with the California State Water Resources Control Board to install drinking water kiosks to ensure safe drinking water for individuals who may be impacted by nitrate contamination from nearby drinking water wells.

The settlement with Kaweah Basin Water Quality Coalition, Tule Basin Water Quality Coalition and Kings River Watershed Coalition Authority – coalitions of San Joaquin Valley growers created to help comply with water quality regulations – was recently announced by the State Water Board’s Office of Enforcement. This settlement and other similar enforcement actions are components of the State Board’s strategy to ensure those in need are provided interim sources of safe drinking water until a permanent solution is found. There are a number of areas where the drinking water does not meet public health standards due to nitrate, and the State Board is insisting that agriculture contribute to providing replacement water.

The settlement requires installation of eight water supply stations at areas located near the impacted wells in parts of Tulare and King counties and southern Fresno county. The stations are expected to provide drinking water to between 12,000 and 24,000 people, with each kiosk serving up to 3,000 impacted residents. The Board did not provide estimates regarding the costs that will be incurred but they are likely to be substantial.

The first three water supply stations are required to be operational by April 30, 2019, with the remaining stations being phased in by January 31, 2020. Under the agreement, the coalitions will provide water for at least four years, with an option of extending the requirement until 2028. Bottled water may be provided by the coalitions in situations where individuals are unable to utilize a kiosk.