A Lifelong Career in Water Conservation: Andrew Belanger's Journey from Intern to Leader

Strategic Insights -

As a result of more than a quarter-century ago, Andrew Belanger landed an internship with the Southern Nevada Water Authority's public services department, the same department the Honors College Alumnus of the Year now runs. Andrew's career in water conservation began unofficially as a UNLV student in 1993. He worked as a guide on the Snake River in Wyoming during the summer before entering the Honors College. Belanger's experience in water conservation laid the groundwork for his career, which has lasted nearly 30 years with the same dual government entity.

Key Takeaways:

  • Andrew Belanger, the Honors College Alumnus of the Year, started his career in water conservation as a UNLV student in 1993, working as a guide on the Snake River in Wyoming.
  • Belanger's internship with the Southern Nevada Water Authority's public services department lasted nearly 30 years, with him eventually becoming the director of public services.
  • During his time with the Water Authority, Belanger assisted in securing a sales tax increase to fund critical water infrastructure for the Las Vegas Valley, which was approved by 72% of Nevada's voters in 1998.
  • Belanger credits UNLV with laying the groundwork for his career, stating that the Honors College helped him learn about local issues and expand his view of different ways to make a difference.
  • Belanger's work has spanned multiple roles, including seven years with the Groundwater Foundation, 11 years as committee chairman for the Colorado River Water Users Association, and 16 years as a member of the State Board of Financing Water Projects.
  • In 2021, Nevada passed a bill banning decorative grass in the Colorado River basin, a significant positive outcome for water conservation efforts.

Statistics:

  • The Southern Nevada Water Authority and Las Vegas Valley Water District work to save water for a population that has experienced exponential growth and drought.
  • Under Belanger's leadership, the Water Authority has implemented a conservation ethic, and the community has been actively involved in water conservation efforts.
  • Belanger has been with the Water Authority for 28 years and is now the director of public services.
  • Water conservation efforts have led to a reduction in water usage in the Las Vegas Valley.
  • As of 2021, Nevada was the first state to ban decorative grass in the Colorado River basin.

Sources:

  • University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV)
  • Matt Jacob
  • Andrew Belanger
  • Southern Nevada Water Authority
  • Las Vegas Valley Water District
  • Groundwater Foundation
  • Colorado River Water Users Association
  • State Board of Financing Water Projects
  • Nevada Legislature