Grand Junction, Colorado – In a major move for Western water policy, Colorado Mesa University has named Shannon Wadas as the new executive director of the Ruth Powell Hutchins Water Center. The appointment comes as the Colorado River faces its worst crisis in history.
Wadas steps into the role with deep roots in the region and 15 years of hands-on experience in natural resource management. She will lead efforts to turn the center into the leading hub for science-driven solutions in the Upper Colorado River Basin.
Shannon Wadas Brings Real-World Experience to the Job
Wadas is no stranger to Colorado water challenges. For years she has worked on the ground managing resources and building partnerships across the West.
“I live here. I am passionate about water,” Wadas told reporters. “CMU sits right at the confluence of the Colorado and Gunnison Rivers. This is the perfect place to tackle the big issues facing our basin.”
Her excitement is clear. She sees the Water Center as the ideal spot to bridge science, policy, and community needs on the Western Slope.
The Water Center Steps Up at a Critical Moment
The Ruth Powell Hutchins Water Center focuses on three core pillars:
- Cutting-edge research on river health and water supply
- Education programs for students and the public
- Honest dialogue between farmers, cities, tribes, and lawmakers
With drought, climate change, and growing demand pushing the Colorado River to the brink, the center’s work has never mattered more. Lake Mead and Lake Powell are at record-low levels. Seven states and Mexico depend on the river. Tough choices are coming fast.
Wadas wants the center to fill knowledge gaps that politicians and water managers desperately need. “We can be that trusted source for solid data that leads to better decisions,” she said.
New Partnership Fuels Bigger Ambitions
The hiring is part of a strengthened partnership between CMU and the Colorado River District. Together they are building a formal board of directors and writing a strategic plan by the end of 2024.
The goal is simple but bold: make the Water Center financially strong and permanently relevant.
“We are at a turning point,” Wadas said. “If we get the structure right now, we can raise the money and do the work that protects this river for generations.”
The Colorado River District protects Western Slope water rights. Pairing its political muscle with CMU’s research power creates a new force in basin-wide talks.
Why Western Communities Should Care
Right now, negotiators are racing to write new rules for the river after 2026. Every gallon counts. Farmers in Grand Junction, ranchers in Montrose, and cities from Denver to Los Angeles are watching closely.
A stronger Water Center on the Western Slope means local voices will carry more weight in those talks. Science from Grand Junction could help keep more water at home while still meeting downstream obligations.
Wadas plans to grow partnerships with tribes, conservation groups, and even lower-basin states. She believes honest collaboration is the only way forward.
The next few months will be busy. The new board should be in place soon. The strategic plan will set clear targets for research, funding, and public outreach.
For the millions who rely on the Colorado River, Shannon Wadas’ leadership arrives at exactly the right time. A passionate local voice now heads one of the region’s most important water institutions. The work starts now.
What do you think about this appointment? Will a stronger CMU Water Center make a real difference for Western Colorado? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
