NACWA awards recognize outstanding contributions to environmental protection and the clean water community.

We are pleased to announce that attorney Roberta “Bobbi” Larson has received a 2020 National Environmental Achievement Award (NEAA) from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA). She was recognized last night in the environment category at an awards ceremony during NACWA’s Winter Conference in Atlanta.

NEAA honorees were recognized across myriad categories for exemplary commitment to their communities, the environment, and the challenges faced by NACWA member agencies. Larson, who recently rejoined Somach as Of Counsel, was acknowledged for her accomplishments while serving as executive director for the California Association of Sanitation Agencies (CASA).

“Throughout her career, Bobbi Larson has demonstrated an extraordinary dedication to protecting the environment, and advocating on behalf of the clean water sector. Whether it be as a private firm attorney, a utility general counsel, or as the executive director of the California Association of Sanitation Agencies, Bobbi has provided valuable insight on and representation of critical and complicated clean water issues on the state, local and national levels.”
~ NEAA Awards Ceremony Remarks, February 5, 2020

“We extend warm congratulations and open arms to Bobbi as she rejoins our firm to continue her commitment to water quality advocacy,” said Andy Hitchings, Somach’s managing shareholder. “Our clients and colleagues have much to gain from the decades of experience, leadership, and strategic perspective in Bobbi’s approach to legal services.”

Bobbi’s private practice with Somach emphasizes water quality law, recycled water permitting, environmental litigation, and regulatory advice. She served as the firm’s managing shareholder from 2009 to 2011. During her tenure as CASA’s chief executive from 2012 to 2019, Bobbi was recognized for building and nurturing a high-functioning, cohesive team of staff and consultants, allowing for efficient and effective advocacy on behalf of California municipal wastewater agencies. She was responsible for the overall management of the association, including overseeing the regulatory, legal, legislative and communications programs, and collaborating with a 13-member board of directors.