Board adopts Nevada County Drought Resilience Plan after two‑year process

Environmental Health Director Amy Levertin summarized the county’s two‑year effort to develop a Drought Resilience Plan under the 2021 statutory framework (referencing SB 552). She said county and consultant risk analysis found that of the county’s roughly 19,000 domestic wells, more than 7,000 could be at risk of going dry in a significant drought scenario, and the plan focuses on low‑cost resilience strategies, outreach, improved well‑monitoring and seeking state and federal funding.

Levertin described short‑term measures—advisory group coordination, emergency fill stations and improved reporting of dry wells—and long‑term considerations including system consolidation and household water‑security programs. Supervisors pressed staff about integrating climate and conservation strategies and whether mining‑related contaminants (the Lava Cap Superfund site was cited) are reflected in the plan; staff said water‑quality hazards would be handled case‑by‑case with state partners and EPA where appropriate. After discussion the board adopted a resolution accepting the plan and directing continued advisory‑group work and outreach.