Protecting the resource that feeds our nation
Our Mission
The water resources of the Salinas River Basin should be managed properly in a manner that promotes fairness and equity to all landowners within the basin. The management of these resources should have a scientific basis, comply with all laws and regulations, and promote the accountability of the governing agencies.
The Salinas Valley Water Coalition is a non-profit organization comprised primarily of agriculture and ag-related business and individual members, whose members own and/or manage approximately 150,000 irrigated acres and land mass and water right holders within the Salinas Valley. For almost 30 years, the SVWC has worked to specifically address our local water issues.
Member Benefits
- Protection of Water Rights: Ensuring your water rights are safeguarded through strategic legal actions and advocacy.
- Equitable Water Management: Promoting fair and scientifically-based management of water resources.
- Active Involvement: Opportunities to participate in workshops, committees, and decision-making processes.
- Collaborative Efforts: Working together with other stakeholders to address regional water challenges.
Join Us!
Your membership and support are crucial in our mission to protect and manage the Salinas Valley’s water resources. Together, we can create a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
For more information or to get involved, please contact Nancy at (831-224-2879) or email at [email protected].
Thank you for your continued support!
Ongoing Efforts
- Monitoring and influencing MCWRA activities, including reservoir maintenance and the Interlake Tunnel Project.
- Securing funding for critical projects, such as the Deep Aquifer Study and inter-subbasin flow modeling.
- Collaborating with the Salinas Basin Water Alliance to amplify our advocacy and effectiveness.
Key Achievements in 2023
- Settlement Agreement with MCWRA:
- Protected water rights for SVRGB landowners.
- Established the Drought Technical Advisory Committee (D-TAC) to guide reservoir operations during droughts.
- Developed the Interim Operations Plan (IOP) for winter reservoir releases, benefiting steelhead passage and groundwater recharge.
- Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP):
- Active participation in the HCP preparation for the Salinas River Basin to ensure stakeholder involvement and protect landowner interests.
- Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA):
- Influential role in forming the Salinas Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency (SVBGSA) and the Arroyo Seco GSA.
- Shaped Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSPs) to ensure scientific, fair, and compliant water resource management.