Johnny Amaral

After almost four years of service to the farmers and communities on the westside of the San Joaquin Valley, Johnny Amaral, deputy general manager for external affairs, is leaving Westlands Water District.

He has taken a position with the Friant Water Authority, working on eastside water issues.

“During his time at Westlands, Johnny played a critical role in the District’s efforts to secure a more reliable and adequate water supply for farmers on the westside,” stated Tom Birmingham, Westlands general manager. “While his presence will be missed, we look forward to continuing to work with him in his new role with the Friant Water Authority. Johnny’s transition will reinforce the collaborative relationship between Westlands and Friant on a variety of issues that impact the water agencies, farms, and the communities on both the east and west sides of the Valley.”

Prior to his role at Westlands, he was chief of staff for Rep. Devin Nunes for 12 years.

“I have been fortunate to work with so many talented people at Westlands and am grateful for the incredible support from the Board of Directors and from general manager, Tom Birmingham,” Amaral said. “The decision to leave Westlands was difficult, but the timing was right. I live in the Friant service area and grew up on a dairy in Tulare, so the opportunity to work on eastside water issues is one that I am eager to start.”