About the Case
In April 2024, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) placed the Tulare Lake Subbasin (TLSB) on probation, effective April 16, 2024, citing deficiencies in local Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSPs) under SGMA. That action required growers within the TLSB to meter and report groundwater pumping, to register wells, and to pay extraction fees as set by SWRCB’s published fee schedule. On May 15, 2024, the Kings County Farm Bureau filed a writ of mandate in Kings County Superior Court challenging the SWRCB’s probationary designation and asserting the at the board exceeded its authority under SGMA.
-
May 2024Writ Filed in Kings County Superior Court
-
Jul 2024Temporary Restraining Order issued
-
Sep 2024Preliminary Injunction Granted
-
Jun 2025Appeal filed and now pending in Fifth District
-
Oct 2025Oral Arguments, Fifth District, Appellate Court Opinion Issued
-
Dec 2025Petition filed with California Supreme Court
-
Jan 2026Trial Court Status Hearing
-
Mar 2026Court Hearing after Remittitur – Status Conference
Latest News & Media
Support the Cause
Your contribution helps protect the rights of farmers and ranchers, ensuring their voice is heard in critical legal matters. Together, we can strengthen agricultural advocacy and safeguard the future of farming communities.
Investment in SGMA Defense Litigation by Year
Donors & Supporters
Shane Bickner
Zach Bickner
John Ellis
Dusty Ference
Garrett Gilcrease
Julie Martella
Brian Medeiros
Michael Miya
Larry Peltzer
Kevin Robertson
Daniel Soares
Chad Souza
Helen Sullivan
City of Lemoore
City of Hanford
Tulare County Farm Bureau
Yuba-Sutter County Farm Bureau