Photo: Paul and his wife, Meghan, their sons, Clark and John, and daughters, Rose, Maeve and Ruth, pose for spring photos.
Yuba Water Agency's ditchtender, Paul Chissie, is part of the team that helps ensure the right amount of water is delivered to the right locations for the agency’s partnering irrigation districts. Scroll to learn more about Paul, his background and some of the things he enjoys in his free time.
What is your background/formal education that led to where you are in your career today?
I previously worked for the California Division of Boating and Waterways as an aquatic pest control specialist. In that position I utilized my qualified applicators certificate and equipment operating skills, as well as daily use of air boats and prop boats. I also have a background in construction and have a valid class A driving license.
How did you get involved in your current career path?
I have always been an avid fisherman and love interacting with all waterways, as well as being a Yuba-Sutter native. All that culminated in my interest in working for Yuba Water.
What does your average day look like? Or what are some of your essential duties?
An average day for me includes precisely managing flows from our ponds and working with our other ditchtenders to ensure irrigators receive the correct amount of water and system flows match daily orders. I then check my service area to ensure that my calculated flows are realized and that my area is in good working order. I also field requests from irrigators in my area and help them with any concerns they may have.
Photo: Paul and his family take a trip to Disneyland.
Do your duties differ throughout the year? And if so, how?
We have a big focus on water delivery April through September during planting season and harvest. My duties then shift to maintenance and upgrades from October through March.
What do you enjoy most about working for Yuba Water?
I really enjoy the camaraderie and family-focused culture, as well as the opportunities for professional development and continued education that the agency provides.
Tell us something about yourself that most of us don't know.
I enjoy power sports and have spent many hours working on all-terrain vehicles. I was even once part of a long-distance off road race team.
Before working here, what was the most interesting job you had?
Before working at Yuba Water, my most interesting job was working for the California Division of Boating and Waterways. I operated air boats and prop boats and was responsible for managing hyacinth growth in large areas of waterways. This job allowed me to see a majority of the San Joaquin Delta system and many remote waterways.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I try and spend as much time with my family as possible. I have a large family, including my wife and five children, and we love to enjoy the outdoors, with fishing, hunting and sports being among our favorite activities.