In the arid landscapes of the Western U.S., water is more than just a resource—it’s a lifeline, a legal battleground, and a policy puzzle. This June, the National Agricultural Law Center (NALC) and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) Foundation are bringing together experts to tackle these issues head-on at the 3rd Annual Western Water, Agriculture, and Environmental Law Conference in Reno, Nevada.
The conference, set for June 19-20, will delve into the complex world of water law, a critical component of Western agriculture. “Water is vital to agriculture,” said NALC Director Harrison Pittman. “From evolving state and federal regulations to drought, to water banking and leasing, there’s a lot to discuss.”
The event will feature a lineup of speakers who are deeply entrenched in Western water issues. Christy Clark, Director of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, JJ. Goicoechea, DVM, Director of the Nevada Department of Agriculture, and Jeff Witte, Director/Secretary of the New Mexico Department of Agriculture, will share their perspectives on Western water, agriculture, and food. Wes Ward, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and President of NASDA, will moderate the discussion.
One of the key sessions will focus on water banking and leasing, a hot topic in the West. This session will provide practical insights and highlight potential pitfalls, offering attendees a chance to learn from real-world examples.
The conference isn’t just for lawyers. Pittman emphasized that it’s designed for a broad audience, including policymakers, producers, students, and anyone involved in agriculture. “You don’t have to be an attorney to attend and get something out of our conferences,” he said. “These are premier educational and networking events.”
The event will also offer continuing education credits through numerous legal and professional organizations, making it a valuable investment for attendees. For those who can’t make it to Reno, a livestream option is available.
Two weeks before the Western Conference, the NALC and NASDA Foundation will host the 12th Annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference in Memphis, Tennessee. This event will cover a different set of regional issues, but like the Western Conference, it promises to be a rich learning experience.
For those looking to stay informed about water law, the NALC’s website offers a wealth of resources. From articles to webinars, there’s plenty to explore. And for the latest updates on conferences and other opportunities, the NALC’s social media accounts and email communications are invaluable tools.
As the Western Conference approaches, the anticipation is palpable. With water issues becoming increasingly pressing, this event offers a unique opportunity to learn, network, and contribute to the conversation. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, there’s something for everyone in Reno this June.