The Bureau of Reclamation recently filled a leadership position when Michael Brain was selected to work as deputy commissioner, following a career spent in various staff positions in the House of Representatives.
According to a March 15 Hydroreview.com article, Brain will be responsible for the agency’s media relations, congressional relations and internal communications efforts. The job also focuses on increasing the profile of the bureau by highlighting its programs and priorities.
“His unique perspective will be vital as Reclamation implements the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to improve our nation’s water infrastructure and invest in strategies that bolster resiliency across the west,” David Palumbo, acting commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, said in the Hydroreview article. “Michael’s legislative and water policy experience will be of great benefit to Reclamation and our partners as we work to address the impacts of drought and climate change across the west.”
Brain, according to a March 3 Department of Interior news release announcing his appointment, is a senior water policy advisor and has spent the last decade advocating for water resource projects and management on Capitol Hill. The release also noted he has served as a member of the staff for the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development. He drafted legislation for Reclamation and the Army Corps of Engineers.
Brain earned his bachelor’s degree from Boston College and a law degree from St. Louis University, according to his LinkedIn page. During his career in the House of Representatives, he reportedly filled several staff and legislative assistant roles to counsel in energy and water panels.
