Metropolitan Water District Watch: CEO/General Manager Passes Away

Dennis B. Underwood, an esteemed Western water expert and former commissioner
of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation who recently became the chief executive officer and
general manager of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, has died. He
was 60.

Underwood was selected last April to the top post at Metropolitan after playing a
leading role in a crucial and complex effort regarding California’s share of Colorado River
supplies as well as negotiating one of the nation’s largest habitat conservation programs. He
was surrounded by family and friends when he passed away Wednesday at his Alta Loma
home after a battle with cancer.

“The water world has lost one of its most accomplished and humble leaders,” said
Metropolitan’s board Chairman Wes Bannister of Underwood’s passing. “The underlying
theme of Dennis’ entire career was to balance needs with grace. That meant that every
cause and every project he was involved in was tempered by clear, wellnegotiated
and respectful interaction with everyone on both sides of the table.”
Bannister said Metropolitan will have to “work hard to maintain the spirit of his
career and to honor him by moving forward thoughtfully and with purpose, being mindful of
our role as a steward for the public and the environment.” In Underwood’s honor, Bannister
directed the American, state and Metropolitan flags to be flown at halfstaff
at all MWD facilities.

The Metropolitan Water District, so vitally important to California has lost its leader.