Crystal Thompson, CAP’s executive affairs advisor and communications manager, has dedicated most of her career to water. Throughout her 28-year tenure at CAP, she has not only worked as part of the CAP team, but she has also served in numerous leadership positions with the Colorado River Water Users Association (CRWUA). She has served as secretary/treasurer and, for nearly 25 years, has chaired the public affairs committee. In recognition of those efforts, Crystal was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the most recent CRWUA annual conference.

CRWUA is a nonprofit organization of approximately 1500 members that provides a forum for stakeholders to exchange ideas and perspectives on Colorado River use and management. The goal is to develop and advocate common objectives, initiatives and solutions, which is accomplished primarily through the organization’s annual conference.

While the organization’s primary work is the annual conference, the public affairs committee members volunteer their time throughout the year. They develop and maintain CRWUA’s website, produce the annual report, manage social media accounts, handle media inquiries and tackle special projects.

“The more Colorado River water users know about the river and others who depend on it, the more effectively they can contribute to protecting and managing it into the future,” said Thompson. “The work we do with CRWUA brings water users together, which is incredibly important to accomplishing that.”

Congratulations, Crystal, for your well-deserved recognition and for your unconditional support of the Colorado River basin.