Santa Fe Prepares for 8th Annual Next Generation Water Summit: A Local Event with Global Impact
As Santa Fe continues to lead on sustainability and climate resilience, the 8th Annual Next Generation Water Summit is set to return June 5–6 at the New Mexico State Capitol, bringing together policymakers, scientists, community leaders, and residents to explore innovative solutions for managing water in an unpredictable climate.
Hosted by the City of Santa Fe in collaboration with the Santa Fe Green Chamber of Commerce and other partners, this year’s Summit builds on nearly a decade of momentum. During a recent Save Water Santa Fe radio broadcast on KSWV, Christine Chavez, Water Conservation Manager for the City of Santa Fe, and Glenn Schiffbauer, Executive Director of the Santa Fe Green Chamber of Commerce, joined host Estevan Gonzales to preview the upcoming event and its growing significance.
A Venue that Matches the Moment
Following a successful debut last year, the Summit will once again be held at the New Mexico State Capitol, a setting that organizers say adds weight and visibility to the issues being discussed. Schiffbauer noted that holding the Summit in the Roundhouse brought a sense of seriousness and purpose to the conversations, elevating the experience for both attendees and speakers.
“The feedback we got from participants was incredible,” Schiffbauer said. “Being in the Capitol underscored how critical these water discussions are—not just locally, but across the state.”
Deb Haaland Announced as Keynote Speaker
This year’s opening keynote will be delivered by Deb Haaland, the former U.S. Secretary of the Interior and a 35th-generation New Mexican. Known for her leadership on environmental issues and Indigenous rights, Haaland’s presence adds a powerful voice to this year’s theme: “Increasing Resilience in an Unpredictable Climate.”
Organizers say her unique combination of public service, personal experience, and cultural connection to the land will offer a compelling perspective on water management and environmental justice. Haaland is also a declared candidate for governor, a development that adds another layer of interest to her appearance.
Also delivering a keynote is Sarah Larsen, who will explore the role of satellite technology and data tools like OpenET in modern water management.
Local Relevance with Global Reach
While the Summit attracts national and international experts, its foundation remains rooted in community engagement. Santa Fe city and county residents can attend virtually for free by registering at NextGenerationWaterSummit.com. Those who wish to attend in person can register at a discounted early-bird rate.
Chavez emphasized that the event is designed to be accessible and impactful for all. “Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, policymaker, or just someone concerned about the future of water, this Summit has something for you,” she said. “We’re offering in-depth content in a format that allows people to engage live or catch up later.”
Packed Agenda, Three Tracks, and On-Demand Access
The Summit will offer three tracks of content: a national track, a New Mexico-specific track, and a library of on-demand sessions. Each session will be recorded and available to registered attendees for 30 days following the event.
Topics include climate adaptation strategies, water reuse technologies, policy innovations, and updates to Santa Fe’s Green Building Code. One of the most anticipated sessions will address how new developments in Santa Fe are incorporating water conservation standards through updated regulations for both single-family and multifamily housing.
The New Mexico track will also feature a panel with Chavez, Water Division Director Jesse Roach, and City Councilor Kelsey Romero-Wirth, offering transparency on Santa Fe’s water planning efforts.
Community Events and Continued Learning
Beyond the formal presentations, the Summit will host a Mayor’s Reception at the Governor’s Mansion, a highlight that brings together speakers, sponsors, and attendees in a more informal setting. KSWV Suave Radio will once again be on hand to record interviews with keynote speakers and panelists for broadcast across Northern New Mexico.
Schiffbauer noted the importance of these off-site events. “It’s not just about sitting in sessions,” he said. “It’s about building relationships and sharing knowledge in a way that energizes the community.”
Call to Action
Organizers are encouraging residents, businesses, and community leaders to register now at NextGenerationWaterSummit.com. Sponsorships are also available for those who want to support the event and expand its reach.
“Water touches everything,” Schiffbauer said. “From economic development to public health to cultural heritage. This Summit brings it all together—and it’s never been more relevant.”
For more information about the City’s ongoing water conservation efforts, visit SaveWaterSantaFe.com.
Prepare to engage with experts and advocates at the 8th Annual Next Generation Water Summit, a pivotal event dedicated to securing our water future. Hosted in Santa Fe, this summit unites diverse voices to discuss practical water management strategies amid a changing climate. From groundbreaking technologies to resilient policy solutions, the summit features a robust lineup of speakers. With a focus on actionable insights, the summit offers multiple tracks covering national, state, and on-demand topics. Whether engaging with the latest in water-saving building codes or participating in policy discussions relevant to New Mexico, there’s something for everyone.
