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 2018 class today; the deadline is Dec. 5. Download an application here. 

Members of the Water Leaders class:

• 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, members of our yearlong Water Leaders class 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.

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 talk to farmers by their crops and wildlife managers at refuges. We’ve tasted-tested freshly desalted ocean water and watched efforts to restore salmon runs.

Send any questions about our program or application to Kasey Chong, the Foundation’s executive assistant.