October ED Report

Defending Local Control of Groundwater: Update on KCFB’s SGMA Lawsuit

Last September, the Kings County Superior Court granted a preliminary injunction in favor of Kings County Farm Bureau, blocking the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) from charging pumping and well registration fees and from enforcing its interim plan in the Tulare Lake Subbasin while the case proceeds. This was a crucial victory, ensuring that state-imposed mandates do not advance unchecked.

The injunction has resulted in significant savings for local agriculture. Over the past two irrigation seasons, growers have avoided approximately $60 per acre in state-imposed fees. Additionally, the order halted the SWRCB from collecting $300 per well in registration fees. These avoided costs represent a direct benefit of the SGMA Defense Fund and the legal fight KCFB is leading.

The SWRCB has appealed the injunction, and the case is now before the Fifth District Court of Appeal. Oral arguments on the state’s appeal took place on October 7, 2025. During the hearing, attorneys for the SWRCB sought to overturn the injunction, while KCFB’s legal team defended the trial court’s decision. After the arguments, the panel of judges will issue a ruling in the coming months.

It’s important to note that this appeal only concerns the preliminary injunction—not the merits of the case itself. Regardless of how the Court of Appeal rules, the broader lawsuit will continue to trial. KCFB remains committed to advancing the case and ensuring that groundwater management decisions remain local.

This battle has statewide implications for agriculture, with Kings County at its heart. Supported strongly by local cities, organizations, and our members, KCFB has made it clear that Sacramento should not set water policy without considering the communities most affected.

Report from Dusty Ference, Executive Director, Kings County Farm Bureau

JOIN THE FIGHT – SUPPORT THE SGMA DEFENSE FUND

Defending local control of groundwater takes resources. The suggested contribution to the SGMA Defense Fund is $15 per acre, and support from non-farmers is appreciated and encouraged at any amount.

Your contributions directly fuel this effort and ensure KCFB can continue protecting the future of farming in Kings County.

Every dollar counts—join the fight today.