In the heart of Mendocino County, a pivotal discussion unfolded at the Board of Supervisors meeting on May 20, 2025, focusing on the newly developed Drought Resilience Plan (DRP). As the county grapples with the ongoing challenges of water scarcity, the plan aims to enhance preparedness and response strategies for future droughts, a pressing concern for residents and officials alike.

Amber Fassett, Deputy Director of Transportation, introduced the plan, which was mandated by California's Senate Bill 552. This legislation requires counties to establish a drought task force and develop a comprehensive resilience strategy. With funding from the Department of Water Resources, the county has been working on this initiative for nearly a year, collaborating with experts from EKI Environment and Water and the University of California Cooperative Extension.

The DRP is designed to address the needs of domestic well users and small water systems, recognizing that Mendocino County's water supply challenges vary significantly across its diverse landscapes. Amir Mani from EKI highlighted the importance of a transparent process in developing the plan, which included public workshops and community engagement efforts that attracted over 70 participants from various towns.

Key components of the plan include a structured approach to managing drought conditions through three defined stages: preparation during non-drought periods, increased measures during moderate droughts, and emergency actions when severe drought conditions arise. The plan emphasizes education and outreach, ensuring that residents are informed and prepared before drought emergencies occur.

During the meeting, supervisors expressed gratitude for the thoroughness of the plan and the community involvement that shaped it. They acknowledged the limitations of the current scope but emphasized the need for ongoing leadership in addressing broader water issues beyond the DRP's immediate focus.

As the Board moved to adopt the resolution for the Drought Resilience Plan, it marked a significant step toward enhancing the county's ability to navigate future water crises. The plan not only serves as a roadmap for immediate action but also lays the groundwork for long-term strategies to secure water resources for all Mendocino County residents. With the plan now in place, the county is poised to tackle the challenges of drought head-on, fostering a more resilient community for years to come.