RIDGECREST, Calif. (October 21, 2025) – – The Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Authority (IWVGA) and Searles Valley Minerals have reached a comprehensive settlement agreement, marking a significant step toward achieving groundwater sustainability in the Indian Wells Valley.
The agreement states that both IWVGA and Searles have permanently dropped (“dismissed with prejudice”) the separate lawsuits they filed against each other. While the main, comprehensive water rights lawsuit continues, Searles has agreed not to challenge the scientific and technical findings of the valley’s mandated Groundwater Sustainability Plan and will instead work with the IWVGA to implement the plan.
Just as importantly, the settlement secures Searles’ support for the region’s long-term water management efforts through agreements on where and how the company will acquire water for its operations, as well as outlining guarantees for any water rights it may obtain through the adjudication.
“We are very pleased to work in partnership with Searles Valley Minerals to achieve a sustainable water future not just for Searles, but for all the residents of the valley and Trona,” said Scott Hayman, chair of the Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Authority. “This outcome places the Indian Wells Valley Water District on an island as the sole challenger to the sustainable yield that was developed out of sound science at the request of the U.S. Navy.”
Environmental and Conservation Benefits
The agreement creates immediate environmental benefits by incorporating reclaimed water into Searles’ operations, taking pressure off the overdrafted basin. The City of Ridgecrest and Searles will work to develop a project that will allow Searles to stop pumping roughly 2,000 acre-feet per year of drinking-quality groundwater from the basin currently being used for industrial processes.
Instead, the City of Ridgecrest will make approximately 2,000 acre-feet per year of unused recycled (non-potable) water available to Searles for industrial uses. This conservation measure also helps ensure the continued viability of Searles and keeps jobs within the community.
Support for Future Critical Infrastructure
SVM has agreed not to oppose the implementation of the IWVGA’s pipeline project, acknowledging the benefits derived from this water replenishment infrastructure. SVM is eligible to receive imported water via the pipeline to supplement its adjudicated native rights and reclaimed water supply, provided such water is acquired from third parties.
Furthermore, the settlement noted that the County of San Bernardino has pledged several million dollars to support the drinking water system for the community of Trona.
