Lunch Program: Ron Nelson, Executive Director – Deschutes River Conservancy

Ron Nelson joined the Deschutes River Conservancy in 2019 as Executive Director. Ron was a founding DRC board member, as well as a founding member of the Oregon Water Trust, now The Freshwater Trust. A longtime progressive leader and innovator in the water conservation and irrigation sector, Ron returned to Central Oregon from California where he managed an irrigation district system that included hydroelectric projects, parks, as well as domestic water distribution systems. He also served on the Oregon Water Resources Commission helping guide statewide water policy and management.

Ron brings nearly 40 years of experience in water management, leadership, public relations, development of water law and policy to the DRC, as well as a passion for the outdoors.