Gall will take control of OWRD
By Terry Murry on Tuesday, June 4th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
SALEM – In spite of opposition by Republican state senators and others, Ivan Gall has been appointed to be the next director of the Oregon Water Resources Department. He will oversee the state’s water resources including allocation, conservation, and protection.
Even some Democrats in the Senate expressed concern that Gall, with more than 25 years working for the department, is too entrenched to lead water resources in a new direction. He was passed over initially in the search for a director, but was later nominated by Gov. Tina Kotek for the job.
Gall has served as a hydrologist, regional and section manager, and administrator for the department. Most recently he held the position of interim deputy director since 2022.
“Water is our most essential resource and I am committed to working collaboratively with our water partners across Oregon to ensure its availability for generations to come,” Gall stated in a news release from OWRD.
He begins his new job on July 1 and political observers in Salem say he will be watched closely by those who are hoping the department will explore new ways to manage water resources in the state.
Photo of Ivan Gall via Oregon Water Resources Department
