Our yearlong Water Leaders program is aimed at providing a deeper understanding of California water issues by attending water tours, studying a topic in-depth and working with a mentor. 

You can apply for the 2019 class today; the deadline is Dec. 4. Download an application here. Make sure to read tips on applying first.

Members of the Water Leaders class:

• Attend our annual Water 101 Workshop to get a statewide understanding of the historical, legal and management aspects of water in California.
• Spend a day “shadowing” a mentor – a major water leader from government, urban, agriculture, environmental organization, private businesses or public interest group.
• Interview the mentor about an issue selected for the class project.
• Present policy findings to the Foundation’s Board of Directors.

Additionally, class members get out of the office to see water issues up close by attending two of our popular water tours, including the mandatory Bay-Delta Tour to learn about the hub of the state’s water system and a tour of their choice.

Our tours give a firsthand look at the water facilities, rivers and regions critical in the debate about the future of water resources. Issues of water supply, water quality, environmental restoration, flood management, groundwater and water conservation are addressed by a wide range of speakers representing different viewpoints. 

During our tours, we visit key infrastructure such as dams and reservoirs, including Hoover Dam and Shasta Dam. We’ve talked to farmers beside their crops and wildlife managers at refuges. We’ve taste-tested freshly desalted ocean water and watched efforts to restore salmon runs.

Send any questions about our program or application to Kasey Chong.