The Water Forum has appointed Ashlee Casey, PE, as its new Executive Director, marking a pivotal moment as the organization finalizes its next-generation water management agreement, Water Forum 2050.
The Water Forum is a regional collaboration of more than 40 water providers, environmental groups, business leaders, and local governments working to ensure reliable water supplies and a healthy Lower American River - a key tributary of the Sacramento River in Northern California.
With more than a decade of experience tackling California’s most complex water challenges, Casey brings deep technical expertise and a collaborative leadership style to her new role. She joined the Water Forum in 2021 as a water resources engineer and has since played a key role in managing surface and groundwater reliability and advancing long-term sustainability projects.
“Throughout her time with the Water Forum, Ashlee has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing collaborative water management solutions,” said Pravani Vandeyar, Director of the City of Sacramento Department of Utilities. “Her leadership style reflects the Water Forum’s values—bringing together a wide range of stakeholders to find common ground on complex water and environmental issues.”
Prior to joining the Forum, Casey worked on regional and statewide initiatives related to groundwater sustainability, flood infrastructure, drought planning, and agricultural water use. She holds degrees in Civil and Environmental Engineering and is a former Peace Corps volunteer and Water Education Foundation Water Leaders alumna.
“It’s an honor to serve an organization that brings people together to solve complex water challenges with respect, science, and shared purpose,” Casey said.
As Executive Director, Casey will lead the implementation of the Water Forum 2050 Agreement — a comprehensive plan developed by over 40 regional stakeholders to address intensifying climate-driven threats to the Lower American River, a key source of water and ecological vitality. In this role, she will guide regional water policy, oversee planning initiatives, and serve as the Water Forum’s lead liaison with policymakers at all levels.
