Solvang Well Siting Evaluation and Water Rights Support

GSI is helping to site and install two new production wells within the Santa Ynez River alluvial gravels for the City. Work has included characterization of the hydrogeology in the vicinity of the river, installation of several test borings, and assessment of sustainable yield. GSI is also supporting the City’s application for a water rights license to pump water from the river underflow; this effort has included preparation of a River Well Operations and Monitoring Plan that is intended to manage potential impacts to neighboring groundwater users and the river. Additionally, GSI has assisted in negotiating resolution of protests by neighboring well owners and groups concerned about the protection of fish habitat.

GSI’s work involved:

• Conducting a hydrogeologic characterization.
• Overseeing the installation of two test borings.
• Assessing the sustainable yield of the aquifer.
• Supporting the water rights application process.
• Developing an operations and monitoring plan to manage impacts to nearby groundwater users and surface water flows.
• Negotiating the resolution of protests by neighboring well owners and groups concerned about the protection of fish habitat.