As Ventura County enters its sixth year of drought, the 20th annual meeting of the Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County (EDC-VC) will explore the theme “Drowning in Drought: Sustainable Water Solutions.” Featured will be keynote speakers Susan Mulligan, general manager, Calleguas Municipal Water District, and Mauricio E. Guardado, Jr., general manager, United Water Conservation District.
“All communities are feeling the impact of declining water supplies. We’ve brought in the experts who will explore innovative ways to address the long-term need,” said Bruce Stenslie, EDC-VC president and CEO.
In addition to the speakers, attendees will enjoy a celebration to mark EDC-VC’s 20th anniversary and a video noting its accomplishments and positive economic impact on the region. The event is Jan. 19 from 3-7 p.m. at Spanish Hills Country Club, 999 Crestview Ave., Camarillo.
“Susan and Mauricio both have extensive hands-on experience and insight regarding the region’s water woes and opportunities. We’re excited to hear their knowledge and perspective on some of the newest proposals for managing the region’s water demands, such as the creation of water markets and the proposed 30-mile twin tunnels project,” said Stenslie.
The speakers will address innovative uses for recycled wastewater, desalination of groundwater and seawater, stormwater capture and conjunctive use of groundwater and surface water to improve supply reliability.
A native of Southern California, Mulligan earned her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Stanford University and her master’s degree in business administration from UCLA. Mulligan joined Calleguas Municipal Water District in 1993 as manager of engineering, with responsibility for design and construction of capital projects. In 2010 she took on the position of general manager with the goal of providing water reliability in an economically responsible manner. She is a registered civil engineer and a certified Grade 5 water treatment plant operator in the State of California.
Guardado joined United Water Conservation District as general manager in August 2015. Prior to joining United, Guardado served nine years as retail manager/CEO for the Santa Clarita Water Division of Castaic Lake Water Agency, seven years as director of engineering for Cucamonga Valley Water District, and four years as project engineer with San Gabriel Valley Water Company. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from California State University, Northridge and a master’s degree from University of Southern California’s Executive Master of Leadership Program. He is a registered civil engineer in the State of California.
EDC-VC’s annual meeting has a long history of bringing together business leaders from throughout the region who attend to learn about vitally important topics to our region’s economy. Cost is $75, dinner is included. For reservations or information, call 805-384-1800, ext. 21 or visit www.edc-vc.com.