CV-SALTS – Managing Salt and Nitrate in the California Central Valley
For Permittees
Two Options Available for Salt Compliance
While the Phase 1 Prioritization & Optimization Study is underway (10 to 15 years), there are two options available for salt compliance. Under both options, existing salt management and monitoring requirements will continue.
Option 1: Conservative Individual Option
Individual permittee is responsible for reducing salt accumulation.
Stringent numeric water quality permit limits apply based on protecting the agricultural and/or municipal beneficial uses.
P&O Study participation is optional.
Option 2: Alternative Cooperative Option
Permittee elects to join region-wide P&O Study with fellow permittees.
Payment of an annual fee to support P&O Study is required.
Current permit performance levels must be maintained, while more stringent requirements are deferred during Phase I.
The P&O Study will help to determine the next permitting options for Phase II.
Benefits of the Alternative Cooperative Option:
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Opportunity to participate and inform P&O Study process and analysis, including development of Phase II.
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Avoid more stringent and costly permitting requirements tied to the Conservative Individual Option during Phase I.
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Likely less costly than Conservative Individual Option requirements.
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Cooperative approach can aid achievement of long-term regional salinity goals.
Salinity Fee Payment
The Central Valley Water Board issued Notices to Comply to all permittees in January 2021.
If you did not participate by 12/15/21 and pay by 12/31/21, you would have to pay 2021 fees and a Back Fee Penalty as part of your 2022 fee. If you have not participated, or have a newly approved permit, please contact the CVSC at dcozad@cvsalinity.org.
The payment window for 2022 will be open to participation until after August 2022. Invoices received after July 31 will incur a late fee.
See the Salt Control Program for more information on the program.