Future and Emerging Civic Leaders Sought for Citizens Water Academy
January 29, 2015
With water issues continuing to dominate the news, the San Diego County Water Authority is accepting applications for a unique…
With water issues continuing to dominate the news, the San Diego County Water Authority is accepting applications for a unique program that allows future and emerging civic leaders to learn more about efforts to ensure a safe and reliable water supply for the San Diego region.
Participants in the spring 2015 session of the Citizens Water Academy will get a behind-the-scenes look at how the Water Authority helps to protect the region’s economy and quality of life through its plans, operations and programs, along with information about regional drought response efforts. The academy also will include a tour of world-class water facilities such as the Carlsbad Desalination Project, and participants will have the opportunity to interact with Water Authority executives.
“I can think of no better way to get informed about our most precious natural resource,” said Mark Weston, chair of the Water Authority’s Board of Directors. “Everyone in the region who aspires to leadership in their civic group, business enterprise or government should take the time to learn about how our investments and strategies are making the region more resilient to water challenges.”
The deadline to apply for the next session of the Citizens Water Academy is 5 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 18. The spring series begins with a class from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on March 5, followed by a class from 5 to 8:30 p.m. on March 11, and a class and tour from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 21. Applicants must commit to attend each session. The selection process is competitive and acceptance is not guaranteed.
To apply or to nominate someone for the academy, go to www.sdcwa.org/citizens-water-academy. Note: The Water Authority keeps an interest list for future academies. People who are interested but cannot attend in March should submit an application and ask to be notified when additional sessions are announced.
The Citizens Water Academy launched in fall 2014 and produced a diverse inaugural class of 50 graduates. Participants said the class series helped them understand the physical movement of water into and around the region, along with a range of critical water issues such as the importance of the region’s water supply diversification strategy, how large-scale water projects are built and maintained, and how water managers are preparing for future water supply needs.