Meet the CASA Board: David Pedersen, Director
David Pedersen is the General Manager of Las Virgenes Municipal Water District and Administering Agent for the Las Virgenes-Triunfo Joint Powers Authority.  In these roles, he serves as the chief executive responsible providing water and sanitation services to residents of the Conejo/Las Virgenes Valleys.  Dave has a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of California, Irvine and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the California State University, Long Beach.  He is currently the Past President of WateReuse California and serves on the Boards of the Association of California Water Agencies, Southern California Water Coalition, California Association of Sanitation Agencies and the Urban Water Institute.

What inspired you to join the CASA board?
I’ve always felt strongly that getting involved is the key to deriving the most value from your CASA membership – and any association membership for that matter.  You can start by participating as a member of a committee or workgroup and, before you know it, you’ll be leading them.  Along the way, you’ll begin to broaden your views and develop a statewide perspective that is critical for CASA’s work.  I found the process to be enlightening and enjoyed getting to know so many other CASA members.  When I was nominated to join the Board, I jumped at the opportunity, and it has been a rewarding experience.  CASA is a very unique organization and doing some incredible work.

What’s your background and how does it relate to the work of our organization?
I’m a Professional Civil Engineer by background and have always been fascinated by the process to produce clean water from wastewater.  During my time in college, I had the opportunity to intern with the Irvine Ranch Water District and spent a couple summers working at the Michelson Water Reclamation Plant.  I was amazed at how the raw wastewater was transformed into high-quality recycled water – and was determined to figure out how it worked.  Little did I know at the time, I’d spend the next 31 years doing exactly that and learning new things every single day.  Now, I’m able to support CASA to be sure that our state and federal policies are aligned with the needs of CASA members to produce clean water throughout California.  It’s an important job and requires the hard work of professionals at all levels, from the front-line operators who keep everything running 24/7/365 to the agency managers who develop long-term strategies for the future.

What do you find most rewarding about serving on the CASA board?
I find it rewarding to work with the most energetic and talented folks in the clean water sector.  At CASA, we are fortunate to have an extraordinary team of professionals who are dedicated to the mission of the organization and delivering value for its members.  They spend their days learning about the challenges we each face in our individual agencies and strategizing on how to support us in Sacramento and Washington D.C.  Much of the work is very technical and requires a depth of knowledge and experience.  Also, my colleagues on the Board are equally extraordinary in their passion for the work, organization, and its mission.  They dedicate countless hours of their time for the benefit of CASA members and bring a wealth of experience to the organization.

 

CASA Winter Conference – Important Updates
Join us January 14–16, 2026, at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Indian Wells for three days of engaging sessions, networking, and inspiration. Check out the updated draft program to see who will be speaking and what topics will be covered, and make your hotel reservations as soon as possible, and be sure to register before the holidays!

IMPORTANT SCHEDULE CHANGE – PLEASE READ
Due to a scheduling conflict with ACWA, the CASA State Legislative Meeting has been moved from its usual time and will now take place on Thursday morning from 8:00–9:00am.

This adjustment has also shifted the Statewide Biosolids Meeting, which will now be held on Friday morning from 8:00–9:00am. These are significant changes from our normal meeting schedule, so please review your travel plans and conference agenda to ensure you are prepared.

IMPORTANT REGISTRATION & HOTEL UPDATE
Due to overwhelming demand, the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa has already sold out of rooms for the conference dates. If you have secured a hotel reservation but have not yet registered for the conference, we strongly encourage you to register as soon as possible.

This year’s program showcases a wide array of technical and leadership sessions designed to help your agency advance innovation, collaboration, and sustainability in the clean water sector. The conference will kick off Wednesday afternoon with concurrent sessions exploring key topics such as climate adaptation strategies, nutrient management, and biosolids regionalization. We will also have a track specifically designed for elected officials. Thursday will feature an inspiring keynote as well as an extended panel focused on agency infrastructure financing options and considerations. With committee meetings, receptions, and networking opportunities throughout the week, this year’s Winter Conference promises to be both informative and energizing. Don’t miss out—register early to secure your spot! We can’t wait to see you in Indian Wells for what is sure what to be another memorable event!

 

Happy Holidays!
With the holiday season upon us, CASA staff wanted to share how thankful we are for you, our members, for your daily service and for simply being a great group of people. Happy Holidays to all! From all of us here at the CASA office, we hope you have a wonderful holiday season!!