Cal. Water Code § 12878.5

If no protest is received by the board or department pursuant to the provisions of the preceding section, the board or department shall adopt and establish the estimated sum previously set forth in the statement of the department made pursuant to Section 12878.1 of this code as the amount necessary to maintain the unit during the current and the ensuing fiscal year and shall thereupon proceed with the formation of a maintenance area in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.