Why it matters: The Association of California Water Agencies is intensifying federal advocacy as California faces a perfect storm of water challenges. The organization spent $115,000 in Q2 2025 on in-house lobbying, staying consistent with its decades-long approach of using internal experts rather than external firms. This comes as southern California grapples with expanding drought while federal endangered species listings threaten water deliveries.
By the numbers
ACWA has maintained steady lobbying expenditures, spending around $420,000 annually for over two decades. The Q2 spending of $115,000 puts the organization on track to potentially exceed its historical average in 2025. The lobbying team consists of three in-house advocates: Ian C. Lyle, Elizabeth Christina Spekhardt, and Caleb N. Raspler. ACWA represents nearly 460 member agencies responsible for 90% of water delivered in California.
Broader context
California’s water sector faces mounting pressure from climate volatility and regulatory changes. As of April 2025, 44% of California-Nevada remains in drought conditions, a 25% increase since October 2024. The crisis follows a volatile pattern where northern California received 110-200% of normal precipitation while southern regions got less than 50%. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has implemented sweeping environmental policy changes affecting California water management.
The agenda
ACWA is lobbying on multiple fronts, focusing heavily on Endangered Species Act reform. Key targets include H.J.Res.78, which would block the endangered listing of longfin smelt that restricts Delta water pumping. The organization also supports S.322 to improve atmospheric river forecasting and groundwater recharge legislation including H.R. 337 and H.R. 338. Forest management bills round out their portfolio, recognizing watershed protection’s role in water security.
Competitive landscape
The report provided no information about competing organizations’ lobbying activities on these same issues.
Between the lines
ACWA’s lobbying strategy reflects a defensive posture against federal actions they view as threats to California water supplies. The July 2024 endangered species listing of longfin smelt directly restricts water pumping operations, explaining the intense focus on ESA reform legislation. Rep. Doug LaMalfa’s resolution to overturn the listing has already passed the House with support from California Republicans. The broader Trump administration rollback of environmental regulations creates both opportunities and uncertainties for California water agencies.
The bottom line
ACWA’s lobbying reflects the water sector’s struggle to balance species protection with supply reliability during unprecedented climate volatility. The organization’s consistent in-house approach and targeted legislative focus position it to influence key policy outcomes affecting California’s water future.
Spot something wrong? Report an issue with this article