The Regional Water Authority (RWA) has announced the recipients of its 2024 awards, honoring individuals for their significant contributions to the region’s water community. The awards were presented on December 12, 2024, during RWA’s annual holiday event.
Water Statespersons of the Year: Erik Loboschefsky and Mario Manzo
From left: RWA’s Jim Peifer, Reclamation’s Mario Manzo, DWR’s Erik Loboschefsky, and RWA’s Michelle Banonis
Erik Loboschefsky, Water Resources Engineer at the California Department of Water Resources, and Mario Manzo, Deputy Area Manager of the Bay-Delta Office at the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, were recognized as joint recipients of the 2024 Water Statesperson of the Year Award. The award honors their instrumental roles in advancing the Healthy Rivers and Landscapes (HR&L) Program in the American River region.
The HR&L Program, formerly known as the Voluntary Agreements, is a collaborative effort among state, federal, and local agencies. Its objectives include enhancing river flows, restoring aquatic ecosystems, and improving water supply reliability across California.
Loboschefsky and Manzo played key roles in overcoming administrative and political challenges to help the American River Region Draft Implementation Agreement (Agreement) move forward. The Agreement outlines the contributions local agencies will make in support of the HR&L Program’s objectives.
“They have exemplified what it means to put aside differences, cut through red tape, and focus on doing what’s right for the future of the American River region and California,” said RWA Executive Director Jim Peifer.
Loboschefsky facilitated direct engagement with the Governor’s Office to resolve obstacles, while Manzo preserved critical negotiation points to maintain the region’s interests. These efforts ensured the successful submission of the Agreement to the State Water Resources Control Board, moving the HR&L Program forward.
Distinguished Service Award: Mike Lee
PCWA’s Mike Lee accepts the Distinguished Service Award.
Mike Lee, former Director of the Placer County Water Agency (PCWA), received the 2024 Distinguished Service Award for four decades of public service. Lee served 24 years on the PCWA Board of Directors and contributed to significant water resource projects and policy developments.
First elected to the PCWA Board in 2000, Lee represented District 3, which includes Rocklin, Loomis, and surrounding areas. During his tenure, he helped secure a 40-year federal license for the Middle Fork Project and championed infrastructure improvements to strengthen water delivery systems.
Lee retired from the PCWA Board in December, capping a career dedicated to serving Placer County and the broader water community.
About the RWA Awards
The Water Statesperson of the Year Award recognizes timely achievements in building alliances within the RWA service area and has been presented annually since 2001. The Distinguished Service Award, established in 2002, honors long-term service and leadership in the region’s water community.
Distinctive perpetual trophies bearing the recipients’ names are displayed at the RWA office, and honorees also receive individual trophies.
For more information about the awards or the Regional Water Authority, visit https://rwah2o.org/about-rwa/award-programs/.
