Bureau of Reclamation: John W. Keys III Award Presented to Manager of Sunnyside Valley Irrigation District

Pacific Northwest Region
Boise, Idaho

Media Contact:

John Redding
(208) 378-5212

Released On: December 23, 2008

John W. Keys III Award Presented to Manager of Sunnyside Valley Irrigation District

Mr. James Trull, Manager of the Sunnyside Valley Irrigation District, was the recipient of the first John W. Keys III Award in recognition of his efforts to promote cooperative partnerships aimed at conserving and improving water resources. SVID is located in Sunnyside, Wash.

Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Bob Johnson presented the award at the November 21, National Water Resources Association Annual Conference held in San Diego, CA. Trull was one of several stakeholders to be recognized with this award.

The award honors the memory of former Reclamation Commissioner John W. Keys III, who lost his life in a plane crash on May 30. Mr. Keys was well-respected for his 36 years of Federal service that focused on finding solutions to the complex issues involving managing water resources. Prior to serving as Commissioner, he was the Regional Director of Reclamation's Pacific Northwest Region for many years.

"Having known John and worked with him for many years, I am very much honored to have received this award. I am also extremely appreciative for Reclamation recognizing me," Trull said. "It should be noted however, that individual achievements are usually the result of substantial efforts of many individuals and organizations and that is certainly true in this case."

The award cited Trull for "Building Partnerships and Strengthening Relationships."

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Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States, with operations and facilities in the 17 Western States. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits. Visit our website at www.usbr.gov.