Bureau of Reclamation selects Alan Heck to fill the position of manager of Klamath Basin area office, after he served in the acting manager position since January.
The news release announcing this selection notes that he will be responsible for overseeing the Klamath Project, including nine dams, three pumping plants, and 19 canals. Heck has been with the Klamath Basin Area Office through tense situations, including a water shortage in 2022 that resulted in the Bureau of Reclamation ordering farm water deliveries to end. However, due to improved hydrology in the Klamath Basin, water delivery reductions were not implemented.
Before joining the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Heck held positions such as the Host Nation Program Coordinator for Marine Forces Japan and the lead engineer for the Department of Defense Education Activity Pacific Region. He began his tenure as the Acting Area Manager in January 2023. Heck holds a Bachelor of Science in Geomatics from the University of Florida and a Master Certificate in Project Management from St. Regis University.
Jeff Payne, Deputy Regional Director of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, expressed his pleasure in Heck's appointment, stating, "We are very pleased to announce that Alan has transitioned to permanent manager overseeing the hardworking and dedicated staff in our Klamath Basin Area Office. Alan began acting in this role a year ago, effectively covering multiple roles ever since. His selection reflects the leadership and dedication that he has demonstrated over this year. We look forward to advancing our many priorities in the Klamath Basin under his continued guidance, including the backfill of several leadership positions in the office."
The Klamath Basin Area Office, located in Klamath Falls, Oregon, has a rich history dating back to the construction of irrigation ditches and canals in the late 1800s. The Klamath Project, authorized in 1905, is a significant part of the office's responsibilities.
With his experience and dedication, Heck is well-equipped to lead the Klamath Basin office and tackle the challenges and priorities of the region.
