Description: Due to current drought conditions in the State of CA and in Ventura County, an urgency condition regarding groundwater now exists within Ventura County. The condition of groundwater resources in watersheds and groundwater basins in Ventura County is presently critical.The purposes of this ordinance are:a. To stabilize groundwater extractions until appropriate regulatory oversight, as recently designated by the State, can take place.b. To protect current communities, growers and other users, who are reliant on groundwater, from the adverse consequences that can result from a rush of new pumpers permanently impacting their ability to obtain needed water.c. To decrease the possibility that groundwater supplies will be exhausted during this extended drought and before groundwater sustainability plans can be implemented.d. To decrease the likelihood that people will further tap stressed groundwater supplies to avoid restrictions and conservation efforts being made by water districts.e. To conserve critical and dwindling water supplies suring a severe statewide and local drought so that there will be adequate supplies for health, safety, and welfare.