About the Program

This past year was a prime example of California’s highly variable climate—and a precursor of the challenges to come. This conference looks at issues that are front and center for managing California’s water supply and natural environment, including legislative priorities for cities, farms, and rural communities; partnerships for healthy ecosystems; and critical decisions for the Colorado River and Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta.

Join PPIC Water Policy Center researchers and a diverse group of experts for a thought-provoking discussion about policy priorities for the coming water year.

Agenda

8:30 a.m. Registration begins and breakfast available

9:00 a.m. Welcome and Presentation
Ellen Hanak , center director, PPIC Water Policy Center

9:20 a.m. Panel 1: Legislative Priorities for Cities, Farms, and Rural Communities
Moderator: Caitrin Chappelle, associate center director, PPIC Water Policy Center
Laurel Firestone, cofounder and codirector, Community Water Center
Dave Puglia, executive vice president, Western Growers
Cindy Tuck, deputy executive director for government relations, Association of California Water Agencies

10:20 a.m. Panel 2: Advancing Partnerships for Healthy Ecosystems
Moderator: Jeff Mount, senior fellow, PPIC Water Policy Center
Lewis Bair, general manager, Reclamation District No. 108
Ann Hayden, senior director of Western Water and California Habitat Exchange, Environmental Defense Fund
Ric Ortega, general manager, Grassland Water District

11:20 a.m. Break

11:30 a.m. Panel 3: Decision Time for the Colorado River and Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta
Moderator: Brian Gray, senior fellow, PPIC Water Policy Center
Grant Davis, director, California Department of Water Resources
Jeffrey Kightlinger, general manager, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
Lester Snow, senior advisor, Water Foundation

12:30 p.m. Program adjourns and informal lunch begins