Northern California’s water community today joins together to recognize Congressman Doug LaMalfa for his steadfast service and enduring commitment to the people, lands, and working landscapes of the Sacramento Valley and the broader North State. Rooted in agriculture and shaped by the rural communities he lived, worked, and played, Congressman LaMalfa brought a deep and authentic understanding of how water, farming, ecosystems, and local economies are inseparably linked in the Sacramento Valley.
Throughout his tenure, he was a principled and consistent advocate for water reliability, sound infrastructure, wildfire resilience, and policies that advanced the livelihoods of Northern California families and environmental stewardship. At a time when rural voices were often overlooked, Congressman (and previously Senator and Assemblyman) LaMalfa stood tall to ensure they were heard clearly in Washington, D.C. and Sacramento, while always seeking common ground across rural and urban areas
His legacy is one of persistence, practicality, and deep respect for place—a recognition that Northern California’s rivers, farms, and communities thrive best when managed with balance, collaboration, and long-term vision. He was a large figure in the North State, and the Northern California water community honors his many contributions and the steady leadership he provided on behalf of the region he called home.
“Doug was a passionate and devout champion for Northern California water and our special way of life,” offered Roger Cornwell, Chair of the NCWA Board of Directors. “He was a champion for water supply reliability, smart infrastructure across the region, and working landscapes that benefitted our economy, public safety, and the ecosystem. He was a good listener and easy to talk with, engaging with various perspectives, and always learning more about an issue before advancing a policy he thought was best for his district and constituents. His care for this region ran deep, and we will miss him and his large presence.”
“Doug was our Congressman, Senator, and Assemblyman, but first and foremost he was a loyal and trusted friend,” said Bryce Lundberg, former Chair of the NCWA Board of Directors. “When Doug was in town, he attended local meetings, festivals, celebrations, and more. He always had time to talk with his neighbors, friends, and many constituents. He visited every corner of his large district on a regular basis, and he knew and respected the hard-working people who called it home. We will deeply miss Doug’s friendship and steadfast leadership for this special region.”
In this NCWA video, Congressman LaMalfa reflects on his father, Milt LaMalfa, a founding director of NCWA, and their family’s enduring connection to Northern California water and the communities it supports: NCWA Generations
