ACWA Statement on Passing of Tom Graff

SACRAMENTO, CA--(Marketwire - November 12, 2009) - Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) Executive Director Timothy Quinn issued the following statement today on the passing of Tom Graff, longtime regional director of the Environmental Defense Fund and water policy expert.

"We are very saddened by the passing of Tom Graff, who spent nearly four decades on the front lines of protecting the environment and advancing water policy. Tom understood the value of working things out, even when his positions differed from those adopted by the water community. He encouraged all stakeholders to do a better job of protecting the environment.

"Tom was tireless in his efforts to seek sustainability for the Delta environment, and in many ways the historic signing today of the Delta legislation by Governor Schwarzenegger is another testament to Tom's leadership.

"We salute Tom for his unwavering commitment to the environment and the significant role he played in California water policy in recent decades."

ACWA is a statewide association of public agencies whose 450 members are responsible for about 90% of the water delivered in California. For more information, visit www.acwa.com.

Contact Information: Contact: Jennifer Persike ACWA Director of Strategic Coordination and Public Affairs 916/441-4545 916/296-3981 (cell)