By Danyella Ochoa, Northern California Water Office Manager
We’ve just concluded the 2025 NorCal Water Leaders Program. It’s been a powerful reminder of what leadership looks like when it’s rooted in place, perspective, and purpose.
This year marked our largest cohort yet, with more than 50 individuals participating in the seven-month journey. These emerging and established leaders came together from across the Sacramento Valley to learn, question, and collaborate as part of a growing network of water stewards. Together, they explored the real-world challenges and opportunities that define water management in our region while building the relationships and perspectives that will help shape California’s water future.
The NorCal Water Leaders Program was established in 2007 by the Northern California Water Association to cultivate the next generation of water stewards. Since then, 437 participants have graduated from the program, representing water districts, local governments, conservation groups, consultants, and more. Together, they form a connected and engaged community of leaders—each contributing to more sustainable and adaptive water policies across the state.
A Hands-On Journey Through the Region’s Water Landscape
Each month from January through July, participants met for half-day sessions featuring focused discussions and on-the-ground learning. This year’s curriculum covered themes central to Northern California’s water future, including:
- Leadership, legacy, and water culture in the Sacramento Valley
- Water rights, hydrology, and flood protection
- Federal and state water projects
- Environmental stewardship and ecosystem recovery
- Groundwater sustainability
- Water quality and the Bay-DeltaThe future of Sites Reservoir and major infrastructure projects
Legislative and policy processes shaping water governance
Monthly sessions paired expert speakers with immersive site tours and conversations that bridged technical knowledge with lived experience.
What Makes This Program Different
Participants are nominated by NCWA members and partner organizations, ensuring that each class brings together a thoughtful and diverse mix of voices. The 2025 cohort included board members, local representatives, early-career professionals, policy consultants, and seasoned water managers—each committed to shaping a better water future for California.
And beyond the content, the program builds community. With coffee, lunch, and plenty of time for connection at each gathering, participants walk away not just with knowledge, but with trusted relationships and a shared sense of purpose.
Looking Ahead
The NorCal Water Leaders Program continues to grow thanks to the enthusiastic support of our region’s water community. The program is biennial, so we will not convene a new class next year—but nominations will open in 2026 for the next program cycle. If you know someone who would benefit from this experience, or contribute meaningfully to future classes, we encourage you to nominate them when the time comes.
We’re proud of this year’s Water Leaders cohort and grateful for the passion, insight, and energy they brought to every session. Together, we’re building a resilient, equitable, and sustainable water future—from the Sacramento Valley, for all of California.
To learn more or ask questions, reach out to Danyella Ochoa at info@norcalwater.org.
