Lara Herway Named Executive Director of Idaho Ground Water Appropriators

Lara Herway named executive director of Idaho Ground Water Appropriators, focusing on groundwater sustainability, conservation, and Idaho water management.

Lara Herway has been named the new executive director of the Idaho Ground Water Appropriators (IGWA). Her appointment marks a leadership change for an organization that represents Idaho’s agricultural groundwater users and plays a key role in regional water discussions.

The Idaho Ground Water Appropriators works at the intersection of agricultural water use, groundwater protection, and state water policy. As executive director, Herway will oversee the organization’s efforts to coordinate with members, regulators, and partner organizations. IGWA’s work often involves technical groundwater issues, legal compliance, and advocacy on behalf of water users across Idaho.

Herway steps into the role at a critical moment for Idaho water management. Groundwater sustainability and water conservation are high priorities for communities and the agricultural sector alike. Balancing irrigation needs with long-term aquifer health requires practical solutions, science-based planning, and collaboration among stakeholders. IGWA’s leadership is positioned to influence initiatives that support both productive agriculture and resilient groundwater systems.

Key priorities for the organization likely include advancing groundwater monitoring, promoting efficient irrigation practices, and engaging in state-level water policy discussions. These efforts help protect drinking water and farming livelihoods while responding to changing climate patterns and regulatory requirements. Effective groundwater management depends on transparent communication, reliable data, and cooperative problem-solving among farmers, water managers, and policymakers.

Stakeholder collaboration will be essential under Herway’s leadership. IGWA often works with local districts, universities, and state agencies to develop technical solutions and public outreach. Building trust with communities and ensuring that water users have access to accurate information are central to sustaining long-term aquifer health.

Looking ahead, Lara Herway’s tenure at IGWA will be watched by Idaho’s agricultural community, water managers, and conservation partners. Her leadership could shape how the organization navigates regulatory shifts, improves groundwater stewardship, and supports practical conservation measures. For Idaho residents and water users, continued focus on groundwater protection and cooperative policy will remain critical to securing the state’s water future.

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