Lake Havasu City Mayor Cal Sheehy was reelected Chair of the Clean Colorado River Sustainability Coalition (CCRSCo) during the organization's recent annual meeting. This reelection signifies Lake Havasu City's ongoing regional involvement in efforts to protect and preserve the water quality of the Lower Colorado River.
Mayor Sheehy will continue to lead the coalition alongside other reelected officers: Duce Minor, of the La Paz County Board of Supervisors, as Vice Chair, and Dr. Todd Tietjen, from the Southern Nevada Water Authority, as Secretary/Treasurer.
The Clean Colorado River Sustainability Coalition unites a diverse group of stakeholders from Arizona, California, and Nevada. Its membership includes municipalities, counties, water and wastewater agencies, tribal representatives, educational institutions, and federal and regional partners. All members share a commitment to protecting the Lower Colorado River, a resource vital to the region's communities and economies.
Mayor Sheehy emphasized the river's importance, stating, "The Colorado River connects our communities and is vital to our residents, our economies, and our future." He expressed his honor to continue serving as Chair and his anticipation of working with regional partners to protect the water quality and long-term sustainability of this critical resource.
The coalition's roots trace back to 1997 when it was established as the Colorado River Regional Sewer Coalition (CRRSCo). In its early years, the organization concentrated on securing federal funding to enhance wastewater treatment systems and expand centralized sewer infrastructure. This initial focus aimed to address nitrate concerns along the Lower Colorado River, directly impacting communities and the river's health.
Over time, the organization broadened its scope. In 2005, it became involved with the Clean Colorado River Alliance, an initiative created by Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. This alliance was formed to identify and address potential threats to the Colorado River's water quality, marking a significant expansion of the coalition's mission.
Following substantial improvements to sewer infrastructure in various communities, including Lake Havasu City and Bullhead City, the coalition formally shifted its direction. In 2013, CRRSCo amended its bylaws and rebranded as the Clean Colorado River Sustainability Coalition. This change reflected a broader mission centered on regional collaboration and a comprehensive approach to water-quality issues affecting the entire Lower Colorado River watershed. The coalition continues its work, bringing together diverse partners to safeguard one of the region's most essential natural resources.
Through its continued leadership and collaborative efforts, the Clean Colorado River Sustainability Coalition aims to ensure the ecological health and sustained viability of the Lower Colorado River for all who depend on it.
