Published on November 18, 2025
The Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency is undergoing a review to make sure it’s not depleting its groundwater, as required by state water regulations.
The Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin provides drinking water to both the Scotts Valley Water District and San Lorenzo Valley Water District, multiple small water systems and about 800 private wells. A state law passed in 2015 requires water agencies to evaluate their groundwater usage and replenishment plans every five years.
In 2023, when the California Department of Water Resources reviewed the agency’s previous self-evaluation, it noted lowering groundwater levels, degraded quality and surface water depletion and recommended changes.
Recent reports on the basin have shown improved conditions, despite the decrease in average rainfall in 2025. Groundwater levels in the basin remain generally stable as a result of low groundwater usage.
“The periodic evaluation is an important checkpoint to ensure our groundwater sustainability efforts are on track,” said Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency Board Chair Chris Perri in a statement. “It allows us to assess the plan’s performance, address recommendations from the state and make any necessary updates to continue protecting our water supply and the environment.”