School of Public Policy

A Water Seminar by Brad Coffey, the Water Resource Manager of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California

Abstract:

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California sees the Colorado River from dueling perspectives: senior priority water rights amongst the basin states but junior priority within California. This juxtaposition drove innovation and cooperation on the river for decades. Will a changing climate spur further cooperation or conflict? This presentation will explore how a large urban water supplier can contribute to solutions.

Bio:

Brad Coffey serves as Chief of Water Resources for the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. In this role, his team (1) plans for the region’s water supply, (2) manages imported and local water resource programs, (3) advances water-use efficiency, and (4) prepares for droughts and a changing climate. Brad has more than 30 years of experience in improving the quality and reliability of Southern California’s water supply. Brad earned degrees from Virginia Tech and the University of Southern California.