From the Department of Water Resources, Sustainable Groundwater Management Office:
As flood events become more frequent, being prepared for flood diversions and groundwater recharge is critical for sustainable water management.
On October 9, 2024 the CA State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) held a public workshop focused on flood diversions for groundwater recharge using Water Code §1242.1. Topics included an overview of Water Code §1242.1, definition of terms, flood diversions requirements, how to file reports, report submittal timelines, diversion exclusions, and an overview of the diversion requirements specific to the Delta.
This workshop was recorded and has now been posted to You Tube here: October 9, 2024 Public Workshop-Water Code 1242.1 (youtube.com)
A similar public workshop was also held by SWRCB on June 26, 2024 focused on temporary permitting for groundwater recharge. That has been posted on You Tube here: June 26, 2024 Public Workshop-Temporary Permitting for Groundwater Recharge.
The SWRCB has prepared a Technical Guidance for diversion requirements under Water 1242.1, posted here: Technical Guidance Water Code 1242.1 – Flood Diversions for Groundwater Recharge
For additional information, please visit:
- Flood Recharge Diversions web page
- Water Code 1242.1 or flood recharge diversion questions can be directed to the following address: FloodDiversion@waterboards.ca.gov
- Statutory Water Rights – 2024 Version (ca.gov)
- Email Subscriptions | California State Water Resources Control Board
On September 5, 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Executive Order N-3-24, which rescinded certain provisions of prior executive orders related both to the drought and to flooding caused by 2023’s late winter storms, that are no longer necessary under current conditions. More information about Governor Newsom’s adaptation of the state’s drought response to changing conditions can be found in a Press Release from September 2024.
