AWWA Names Executive Director of Government Affairs

American Water Works Assn. (AWWA) CEO David LaFrance announced that G. Tracy Mehan III has been named AWWA’s executive director of government affairs. Mehan will begin his duties in Washington, D.C. on Aug. 3, 2015, succeeding Tom Curtis in leading the association’s legislative, regulatory and advocacy efforts.

Mehan currently is serving as interim executive director at the U.S. Water Alliance and source water coordinator for the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities. His career includes service as assistant administrator for water at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (2001-03) and more recently as a principal for the environmental consulting firm The Cadmus Group (2004-14).

“Tracy Mehan is among the most trusted and highly regarded leaders in water policy and regulatory matters,” LaFrance said. “He has the vision and ability to build upon AWWA’s reputation for technical expertise, commitment to sound science, and authentic concern for public health and the environment. He is truly a Total Water Solutions professional, having served in significant leadership roles in drinking water, wastewater and water resource management.”

An adjunct professor at George Mason University School of Law and the Heinz College at Carnegie Mellon University, Mehan also has experience in state water and environmental issues. He directed the Office of the Great Lakes for the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (1993-2001) and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (1989-92). He also has experience working within the U.S.-Canada bi-national policy framework on Great Lakes issues.

“I am grateful to have an opportunity to serve with AWWA at such an important time in its long history,” Mehan said. “Throughout my career, I have always known AWWA as an advocate for smart water policy and an honest, collaborative partner in the water community. I’m pleased to work alongside the outstanding AWWA team in both Washington, D.C. and Denver, an esteemed Water Utility Council, the Sections, and a membership of more than 50,000 committed water professionals.”

Source: American Water Works Assn.