Anniversary event highlights regional accomplishments and cooperation to meet future water challenges
The Regional Water Authority celebrated its 25th anniversary on October 1, bringing together approximately 120 water leaders, elected officials, and partners to recognize a quarter-century of partnership that has strengthened water supply reliability and supported communities and the environment in the greater Sacramento region.
Held in downtown Sacramento, the celebration highlighted the relationships behind the region’s progress and the work ahead as water suppliers prepare 
for a changing climate, address pressures on affordability, and navigate increasingly complex regulations.
“Water is the ultimate team sport,” said RWA Executive Director Jim Peifer. “Nothing gets done by an individual in this business. It’s the work of many people, and the RWA really helps to accomplish that.”
Founded in 2001, RWA brings together 22 water suppliers serving approximately 2.2 million people across six counties. Its early work helped advance member commitments under the Water Forum Agreement, which balances water supply reliability with environmental stewardship of the lower American River, including water conservation and groundwater management.
Through RWA, members have secured more than $180 million for regional projects. Regional water suppliers have banked approximately 900,000 acre-feet of water underground since 1997. Regional water use has declined about 16% since 2000, even as the population has grown about 45%.
Those accomplishments reflect years of cooperation among independent water suppliers, supported by shared technical expertise, infrastructure investment, and regional advocacy.
Reps. Ami Bera and Kevin Kiley attended and presented certificates recognizing RWA’s anniversary. Their remarks highlighted how regional partnerships help water suppliers address the Sacramento region’s exposure to both drought and flooding and plan for future water needs.
“I think RWA really does represent the Sacramento region at its best, extraordinary people coming together to solve unique challenges in unique ways,” Kiley said.
Assembly Majority Leader Cecilia Aguiar-Curry recognized RWA’s technical expertise and partnership in advancing groundwater recharge policy, including its work on Assembly Bill 2026, which she authored to modernize recharge permitting.
“You’ve built relationships that help this region tackle very difficult water issues today and prepare for the challenges we know that are coming even if we don’t know exactly what they’re going to look like,” Aguiar-Curry said.
The evening also featured a conversation between Peifer and KCRA 3 Chief Meteorologist Heather Waldman about changing water challenges, El Niño and preparations for the coming winter. Waldman discussed how the timing, strength, and spacing of individual storms shape their impacts. Peifer described how years of infrastructure investment have positioned regional water suppliers to use more surface water during wet periods and preserve groundwater for dry times.
The discussion underscored the importance of sustained preparation and cooperation as the region plans for its next 25 years.
“Regional cooperation gives each member a stronger voice and gives the Sacramento region a greater ability to shape its own future,” said RWA Board Chair Michael Saunders.
RWA also unveiled a new logo depicting the mountains, foothills, and valley connected by a river. The design reflects the connections across the region and the distinct communities and water suppliers working together to shape its future.
