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RELEASE: Greg Johnson of Far West Rice Elected as President of California Farm Water Coalition

The California Farm Water Coalition is proud to announce the election of Greg Johnson as its president. Johnson is the owner of Far West Rice in the Sacramento Valley town of Durham. He succeeds Bill Diedrich, a San Joaquin Valley farmer who served as the organization’s president for the past eight years.

Johnson brings a wealth of experience in water management and agricultural advocacy to his new role, and the board is confident in his ability to champion the interests of California farmers and advance the Coalition’s mission of promoting efficient water use and stewardship.

“I am deeply honored to serve as the president of the California Farm Water Coalition,” said Johnson. “I look forward to working with our members and stakeholders to ensure that California agriculture has access to the water resources it needs to thrive.”

In addition to Johnson’s election, the Coalition is pleased to announce the following individuals elected to its leadership team:

Gina Dockstader, an Imperial Valley farmer from Calipatria, has been elected Vice President of the organization. Dockstader brings a strong commitment to agriculture as a member of the Imperial Irrigation District Board of Directors and a deep understanding of water issues in California and in the Colorado River Basin.

Wayne Western, of Hammonds Ranch in Fresno County, has been elected Secretary/Treasurer of the board. Western’s expertise as a diversified farm manager and outspoken advocate for agriculture is invaluable to the Coalition as it continues its work to promote irrigated agriculture. He understands and supports the need for abundant and dependable water supplies for farmers throughout the state.

“We are fortunate to have Gina Dockstader and Wayne Western join our leadership team,” said Johnson. “Their dedication and expertise will be instrumental in guiding our efforts to advocate for the interests of California farmers.”

Additionally, the California Farm Water Coalition welcomes two new board members:

Brett Lauppe, representing CoBank, brings extensive experience in agricultural finance and rural improvements to the board.

Jeff Sutton, of the Tehama-Colusa Canal Authority, brings a wealth of knowledge in water infrastructure, water policy, and water law to the board.

“We are excited to welcome Brett Lauppe and Jeff Sutton to the board,” said Johnson. “Their diverse backgrounds and perspectives will enhance our ability to address the complex challenges facing California’s farm water users.”

Returning directors who were elected to new 3-year terms, include Peter Nelson of the Coachella Valley Water District, Mark McKean from Kings River Conservation District, and Diana Westmoreland representing California Women for Agriculture.

The California Farm Water Coalition is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public about the connection between farm water and our food supply as well as the importance of farming to the state’s economy and quality of life.

For more information about the California Farm Water Coalition and its leadership team, please visit www.farmwater.org