On Jan. 22, the Friant Water Authority announced it appointed Johnny Amaral as its new CEO following years of service and leadership within the organization. FWA represents 23 irrigation and water districts throughout California’s Central Valley.
Amaral joined FWA in March 2019 as chief of external affairs and was appointed chief operating officer in early 2022. In these roles, he has overseen FWA personnel and day-to-day operations, while leading FWA’s engagement on water supply reliability, water policy, legislative advocacy and communications.
As CEO, Amaral will focus on protecting the Friant water supply, safeguarding critical infrastructure such as the Friant-Kern Canal, strengthening trusted partnerships across the region and leading FWA’s experienced and dedicated team, according to the group.
“We welcome Johnny in his new role as he brings a strong understanding of Friant operations, water policy and the needs of valley farmers and communities,” says Rick Borges, chair of the FWA board of directors.
During his time at FWA, Amaral has played a central role in advancing initiatives critical to the region’s water future. His work has included expanding opportunities for groundwater recharge for San Joaquin Valley farmers and leading the Friant-Kern Canal Capacity Correction Project as FWA’s staff lead on construction activities. In this role, Amaral has worked to secure funding and develop partnerships to support long-term repairs to this vital facility, helping protect both water deliveries and the communities that rely on them.
Amaral has also led FWA’s efforts to build and maintain strong working relationships with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, community representatives, farm bureaus, commodity groups, advocacy organizations and other water agencies, recognizing collaboration as essential to achieving long-term water sustainability in the San Joaquin Valley.
Prior to joining Friant Water Authority, Amaral served as deputy general manager for external affairs at Westlands Water District for more than four years. He began his career in public service as chief of staff to Congressman Devin Nunes, where he worked on water and public policy matters for more than 13 years.
