Photo: Adam and his son, Thomas, spend a day hitting the trails.
Yuba Water Agency's government relations manager/special counsel, Adam Robin, simply describes his position as working with his colleagues to help make sure that decision makers in Sacramento and Washington D.C. remember how important the work of Yuba Water is for our community and people across California. This work includes reducing flood risk for our region, generating power to keep the lights on and making sure that fish, wildlife and people all have the water they need to thrive. Scroll to learn more about Adam, his background and what he enjoys when not at work.
What is your background/formal education that led to where you are in your career today?
I’ve always been interested in infrastructure, the environment, history and politics. I studied agricultural economics in college and then worked for elected officials in both Washington D.C. and California. I went to law school with the goal of working on natural resources and water policy issues.
How did you get involved in your current career path?
I’ve worked as an attorney, lobbyist and in other roles related to water law and public policy for almost 15 years. I grew up in the Bay Area, so while I can’t say I’m a true NorCal native, I’m proud to have spent most of my career representing Sacramento Valley water interests. The Sacramento Valley is truly a unique and wonderful place to work.
Photo: Adam and his wife, Megan, and their kids, Thomas and Emma, pose for a photo at Folsom Lake.
What does your average day look like? Or what are some of your essential duties?
On any given day I might be bouncing between meetings with our agency staff and partners, participating in a legislative briefing or regulatory hearing, or working to cultivate relationships with decision makers, their staff or other interested parties. I spend a lot of time reviewing legislative and regulatory proposals, as well as working with our team to comprehensively evaluate their potential impacts. That enables us to develop and implement effective strategies to protect and promote Yuba Water’s ability to advance our mission.
Do your duties differ throughout the year? And if so, how?
There’s a seasonality to the legislative calendars that structure how and when work gets done in Sacramento and Washington D.C. - some times of the year are definitely more busy than others. That said, much of my time is spent supporting long-term efforts where progress is often measured in years, and not days, weeks or months.
What do you enjoy most about working for Yuba Water Agency?
Working for a mission-driven organization with talented and committed colleagues. I feel a sense of genuine pride in Yuba Water’s history of pioneering forward-thinking solutions to challenges that can seem insurmountable - from flood risk to water management to forest health, Yuba Water has brought constructive and innovative approaches to a wide variety of issues. I also truly enjoy working with and learning from my colleagues, who all bring unique skills and perspectives that keep us moving forward!
What are three words you would use to describe Yuba Water?
Innovative, collaborative and resourceful.
What’s the most recent app you downloaded on your phone?
Crayola Create & Play, to keep our four-year-old daughter entertained while waiting for a delayed flight.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Spend time on two wheels! Our family loves riding bicycles and dirt bikes. Our seven-year-old son races BMX and mountain bikes and I’m just trying to keep up! We also dedicate family time to skiing, camping and visiting the ocean and other waterways.