Winterization Monitoring & Reporting: What Mendocino Cultivators Need to Know

RRP Support Team
Sep 18
2 min read

As the rainy season approaches, Mendocino cultivators face a crucial task: preparing their sites for winter. Winterization isn’t just about installing erosion control measures like straw wattles or silt fencing—it’s also about monitoring and reporting. These steps are required by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board and are essential for protecting your farm, your watershed, and your compliance status.

Why Monitoring Matters?

Winter rains can wash sediment, fertilizers, and other materials into local waterways. Monitoring your site helps:

Identify problems early before they become violations.
Keep erosion control practices effective.
Protect fish, wildlife, and water quality.
Demonstrate compliance with Water Board requirements.

What to Monitor?

According to the Water Board’s guidelines, cultivators should regularly inspect:

Roads and Access Areas – Check for rutting, ponding, or runoff issues.
Drainage Features – Culverts, ditches, and swales should remain clear of debris.
Erosion Control Structures – Straw wattles, silt fencing, mulch, or check dams must be secure and functioning.
Water Storage & Diversions – Look for leaks, overtopping, or sediment discharge.

When to Monitor?

Before the Rainy Season – Confirm that all winterization practices are in place.
During Rain Events – Inspect while it’s raining (when safe) to ensure controls are working.
After Rain Events – Check for failures, washouts, or areas needing repair.

How to Report?

The Water Board requires cultivators to document inspections and submit monitoring reports.

Take Photos: Capture evidence of installed measures and any issues found.
Keep Records: Note dates, rainfall events, observations, and corrective actions.
Submit Reports: Follow the reporting deadlines outlined in your permit or enrollment.

Tips for Staying Compliant:

Create a simple checklist for each inspection.
Assign one person on your team to be responsible for monitoring.
Fix problems immediately—don’t wait until the next rain.
Keep reports organized in a binder or digital folder for easy submission.

Here's the CANGO Winterization Monitoring and Reporting Protocols for Statewide Cannabis Order Document:

Need Help?

The Rural Resilience Project can help Mendocino cultivators prepare for winterization, understand monitoring requirements, and complete reporting forms.

📌 Apply for free Technical Assistance today—it only takes 15–20 minutes.

🔗 Technical Assistance Form link: https://form.jotform.com/243165056836056