PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

IT HAS BEEN a privilege to serve as AWRA’s president during 2018, a year of significant transition. AWRA presidents serve a one-year term, and this has been a busy one! I have enjoyed meeting so many talented people who are well equipped and who truly care about the future of our water resources. In particular, I am struck by the number of our members who speak so articulately and passionately about their work and the health of our planet.

This issue of IMPACT focuses on science. I’m proud to be part of an Association that has always placed a premium on scientific content. From the Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA), to specialty conferences and webinars, the AWRA board, staff, and members have always understood that providing a scientific underpinning is crucial to the development of sound policies, programs, and practices.

Recognizing the role of science, AWRA’s Policy Committee is working on a policy statement regarding “The Criticality of Science in Water Resources Decision Making” for the board’s consideration and adoption this fall. My greatest interest, professionally, is to strengthen the linkage between science and water resources policy, so I’m looking forward to adopting this particular policy statement. The water resources profession—and AWRA specifically—can further demonstrate its commitment to science by promoting:  long-term data sets; sustained investment in studies and analysis; programs designed to train scientists and engineers across a variety of disciplines; robust peer reviews; and a community of practitioners ready to interpret and make use of the results.

Now more than ever, those in the policy arena need to call upon the training and expertise of scientists and engineers. Likewise, scientists and engineers have a responsibility to communicate findings and consequences clearly and compellingly to decision-makers.

One person who has helped to link the scientific and policy communities over the years is AWRA’s Executive Vice President, Ken Reid. A connector and communicator by nature, he has worked constantly during his 37-year tenure to help colleagues make the necessary connections that benefit us all. In my January column, I noted that 2018 would be a year of transition for AWRA, as Ken is retiring and handing the reins to a new Executive Vice President.

Those who have experienced his larger-than-life laugh and his bear hugs over the years know that Ken is a force of nature — one who leaves a deep and abiding imprint on the AWRA family. Ken and Pat have purchased a lovely property and have launched their efforts to grow gardens, create art, and enjoy the company of their friends. I want to take this opportunity to thank Ken for his friendship and leadership over the years. I also want to acknowledge the retirement of Patricia Reid and Jacque Towner, two of AWRA's long-time staff members. You will be missed!

AWRA has been conducting a search for the next Executive Vice President this fall and plan to have a new Executive in place before the New Year. Stay tuned for further announcements and introductions.

This is the time of year when the President hands the gavel to her successor. I want to welcome Lisa Beutler of Stantec to the role of AWRA’s 2019 President. Lisa has been a wonderful friend and colleague over the years and has a passion for the people of this Association and the work that they do. Please give her the same welcome and support that you have given me. It has been an honor.

Brenda O. Bateman can be reached at [email protected].