Stanislaus & Tuolumne Rivers Groundwater Basin Association

Overview

Modernizing Water Management Communication

The Stanislaus and Tuolumne Rivers Groundwater Basin Association Groundwater Sustainability Agency (STRGBA) represents seven member agencies working together to manage and protect the Modesto Subbasin’s groundwater supply. With the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) placing a growing emphasis on data-driven stewardship and public engagement, STRGBA recognized the need for a website that could reflect their forward-thinking mission.

They partnered with Powerful to redesign their website with clear goals in mind: increase transparency, simplify navigation, present up-to-date information, and showcase their identity as a modern, collaborative organization. As an agency entrusted with managing one of California’s high-priority groundwater basins, STRGBA needed a website that could serve as both a communication hub for the public and an operational resource for member agencies.

Design That Flows

Groundwater management involves complex data, planning, and collaboration. STRGBA wanted a website that would make this information approachable and easy to find for everyone. Their goal was to create an intuitive experience where visitors could quickly locate upcoming meetings, explore resources, or learn how to get involved.

To achieve this, Powerful implemented the Deschutes Blueprint, a task-oriented layout designed for clarity and accessibility. The blueprint uses visual simplicity to help visitors navigate effortlessly. Key actions– such as Meetings & Workshops, Resources, and Get Involved– are presented in bold, easy-to-spot buttons right on the homepage. Each section flows naturally into the next, encouraging exploration without overwhelming the visitor.

By structuring the homepage around what people come looking for most, the design puts information within reach in just a few clicks. Visitors can quickly see upcoming meeting dates, review sustainability plans, or discover opportunities to participate– all without needing to dig through menus or dense text. The clean typography and consistent use of STRGBA’s color palette help reinforce their credibility while maintaining a modern, welcoming tone.

The result is a website that mirrors STRGBA’s collaborative approach to groundwater stewardship. Whether someone is joining their first public meeting or researching technical reports, they’re greeted by a clear, welcoming layout that feels purposeful from top to bottom.

Building Trust Through Transparency

Transparency is at the core of STRGBA’s work. As an agency responsible for managing the Modesto Subbasin’s shared groundwater resources, they understand that effective stewardship depends on open communication. Every meeting, agenda, and report plays a role in ensuring that community members and partner agencies stay informed about ongoing efforts to maintain a sustainable water future.

To strengthen this connection, Powerful integrated the Agendas & Minutes web app—a tool designed to make information easy to publish, access, and understand. STRGBA staff can upload the latest meeting materials in just a few steps, and the app automatically formats them into an organized, visually engaging display. Each meeting entry features quick-access icons for the agenda, minutes, location details, and any related media, creating a clear path for visitors to review what’s happening.

This streamlined approach transforms what could be a complex archive into an accessible system that keeps information clear and consistent. Visitors no longer need to sort through folders or search for attachments; instead, they’re met with an intuitive layout that makes staying informed effortless.