North Gualala Water Co. v. State Water Resources Control Board

Opinion

MARGULIES, J.

The North Gualala Water Company (NGWC) appeals from a judgment denying two consolidated petitions for writ of mandate. The petitions challenge the State Water Resources Control Board’s (Board) jurisdiction to compel NGWC to obtain a permit to pump groundwater from two wells located near the North Fork Gualala River, as well as the Board’s interpretation of pumping limitations placed on the permit. In an issue of first impression, the parties dispute the proper construction of the statutory phrase, “subterranean streams flowing through known and definite channels,” which…