KCFB Challenge to State Water Board Heads to Merits Hearing Tuesday

HANFORD, Calif. – Kings County Farm Bureau’s legal challenge to the State Water Resources Control Board will reach a significant milestone Tuesday when the case comes before the Kings County Superior Court for a merits hearing.

The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, October 6, at 1:30 p.m. in Department 2 before Judge Shane Burns.

KCFB filed its lawsuit in May 2024 following the State Water Board’s decision to place the Tulare Lake Subbasin on probation under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act. After more than two years of litigation, Tuesday’s hearing will give the parties an opportunity to present their arguments on the merits of the case to the court.

“This case has been working its way through the courts for more than two years, and tomorrow is an important step in that process,” said KCFB Executive Director Dusty Ference. “We look forward to having the merits of the case heard and will continue to keep our members and the community informed as the court considers the issues before it.”

A ruling is not necessarily expected Tuesday. The court may take the matter under submission following the hearing.

Hearing Information
KCFB v. State Water Resources Control Board
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
1:30 p.m.
Department 2
Kings County Superior Court
Judge Shane Burns

Kings County Farm Bureau will provide additional information following the hearing.