Kahn, Soares & Conway, LLP

The question of how to define “waters of the U.S.,” or #WOTUS, has lingered in #aglaw and policy for decades. In 2023, #SCOTUS narrowed the definition of WOTUS with its ruling in #Sackett v. EPA. At our third annual Western conference, Theresa Dunham, partner at Kahn, Soares & Conway, LLP, will discuss the legal and regulatory landscape following the Sackett ruling. Check out the article below for details on the session ?? https://lnkd.in/gjwKpAiZ #Western2025 #waterlaw

It was an absolute pleasure to have students from the AG 452 - Issues Affecting California Agriculture course visit Sacramento this week. They were able to spend time with Secretary Karen Ross and other leaders, discussing how to better support the food and agriculture industry in California. Thank you to George Soares for sponsoring this course and to Kahn, Soares & Conway, LLP for taking care of the logistics. The smiles in this image represent the incredible talent who will lead our industry into the future. Thank you to everyone who lavished their insight and guidance on them. These lessons will not be forgotten.

Louie Brown, Jr., Partner at KSC, moderated an impactful panel with California’s water leaders at the American Pistachio Growers annual conference last week. The discussion explored water storage, the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, and the role of innovation in future water management. ? A huge thank you to APG for hosting an incredible event, and to the panelists Karla Nemeth, Director of the California Department of Water Resources, Daniel Hartwig, President of the California Fresh Fruit Association, Aaron Fukuda, General Manager of the Tulare Irrigation District, William Bourdeau, owner of Bourdeau Farms, and Justin Mendes, General Manager of North Fork Kings GSA?for sharing their expertise!?

We are excited to announce that Abby Taylor-Silva will be joining KSC as the new Managing Director of Regulatory Affairs on April 1! Click here to read the official announcement and learn more about Abby: https://conta.cc/4gXeXhv

Earlier this week I attended an impactful California Rice Commission meeting, where we explored critical issues at the intersection of agriculture and water policy—key areas for us at Eaton Drilling Co., LLC and Pumps. David Guy from the Northern California Water Association was a highlight. His insights into water policy and drought protection strategies in Northern California were particularly valuable. Having grown up farming in the Central San Joaquin Valley and spending much of my professional life there and along the Central Coast, I found his perspective on the complex dynamics and the often adversarial interactions among diverse stakeholders enlightening. It’s clear that while challenges persist and needs differ, there is significant opportunity for regional stakeholders to learn from each other as we address the intricate water needs in agriculture. Louie Brown, Jr. from Kahn, Soares & Conway, LLP overview of the 2024 election impacts from a California standpoint highlighted the profound influence of state politics on agricultural practices. The evolving legislative landscape, the challenging balance between federal and state policymakers, voter focus on affordability, and the significant benefits of cap and trade for agriculture are all crucial as we consider our strategic direction over the coming years. The ongoing challenges with #water and opportunities for innovation in #groundwater recharge and storage projects like the proposed Sites Reservoir resonate deeply with our mission. These discussions not only inform our strategies but also strengthen our commitment to leading in water management solutions that cater to #agricultural, #industrial, and public sector needs. Thank you to Tim Johnson and the California Rice Commission team for facilitating these events. I am grateful for platforms that bring together diverse stakeholders and foster dialogues crucial for the future of California agriculture. It promises to be a compelling year as we watch these developments unfold and shape our industry. #Agriculture #WaterPolicy #Sustainability #CaliforniaAgriculture #Leadership

Congratulations to CABA and its Executive Director, Carlos Gutierrez, on this well deserved recognition!

New UC Davis research shows that climate change is driving nitrate pollution in groundwater, a challenge not just for California but worldwide. Theresa Dunham shares her expert insights and highlights the urgent need to balance farming practices with safe drinking water. Check it out here: https://lnkd.in/gQcxsdfs

A big thank you to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Sacramento for giving KSC the opportunity to spend the day volunteering for such a worthwhile cause. Our team had a blast!

?? Meet Louie Brown, Jr.: Advocacy Speaker Extraordinaire! ??We're excited to have Louie A. Brown, Jr., Partner at Kahn, Soares & Conway, LLP , as one of our distinguished advocacy speakers! Leading the Sacramento office and Government Relations Group, Louie brings unmatched expertise in guiding clients through California's complex legislative and regulatory landscape. With a proven track record in negotiating impactful legislation, Louie is a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand California’s legislative processes. Don’t miss the chance to hear more about California policy-making! ?? #Advocacy #CaliforniaPolicy #UnitedAg #KahnSoaresConway #Agriculture

We are thrilled to share this proud moment as George Soares is honored with the Distinguished Service Award from the California Cotton Ginners and Growers Association. A big thank you to CCGGA for taking the time to make this possible!