Salinas Valley Water Coalition (SVWC)

Protecting Our Water, Securing Our Future

Our Mission

The Salinas Valley Water Coalition (SVWC) is dedicated to safeguarding the water rights of landowners within the Salinas Valley/River Groundwater Basin (SVRGB). Through diligent advocacy, strategic litigation, and collaborative efforts, we ensure that water resources are managed equitably, sustainably, and in compliance with all regulations.

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.

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.

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 us!

Thank you for your continued support!