(a) If a local agency believes that an alternative described in subdivision (b) satisfies the objectives of this part, the local agency may submit the alternative to the department for evaluation and assessment of whether the alternative satisfies the objectives of this part for the basin.
(b) An alternative is any of the following:
(1) A plan developed pursuant to Part 2.75 (commencing with Section 10750) or other law authorizing groundwater management.
(2) Management pursuant to an adjudication action.
(3) An analysis of basin conditions that demonstrates that the basin has operated within its sustainable yield over a period of at least 10 years. The submission of an alternative described by this paragraph shall include a report prepared by a registered professional engineer or geologist who is licensed by the state and submitted under that engineer’s or geologist’s seal.
(c) A local agency shall submit an alternative pursuant to this section no later than January 1, 2017, and every five years thereafter.
(d) The assessment required by subdivision (a) shall include an assessment of whether the alternative is within a basin that is in compliance with Part 2.11 (commencing with Section 10920). If the alternative is within a basin that is not in compliance with Part 2.11 (commencing with Section 10920), the department shall find the alternative does not satisfy the objectives of this part.
(Added by Stats. 2014, Ch. 347, Sec. 18. (AB 1739) Effective January 1, 2015.)
Last modified: October 25, 2018