The Irrigation Association (IA) announced that Nathan Bowen has been promoted to advocacy and public affairs vice president. Bowen joined the IA in 2022 as the organization’s advocacy director.
In this role, Bowen is responsible for planning and executing the strategic direction of the initiatives focused on the IA’s public affairs, government relations, and standards and codes efforts. Bowen continues his work serving as the chief lobbyist for the IA and leading the association’s government relations work at the federal, state and local levels. In addition, Bowen will spearhead the IA’s public affairs efforts that help share the positive impact of irrigated agriculture and irrigated landscapes and drive messaging for the industry and consumers.
“We are excited to have Nathan help build on our efforts to share the story of the positive contributions of the irrigation industry,” said Natasha Rankin, MBA, CAE, Irrigation Association chief executive officer. “Our increased emphasis on external affairs is a demonstration of the IA’s commitment to our new strategic direction to elevate the impact and value of the industry with decision-makers from Capitol Hill to the grower and consumer.”
In addition to his advocacy and public affairs responsibilities, Bowen will also manage the industry’s participation in standards and code development initiatives, working with aligned organizations, standard-setting bodies and industry experts.
“I am thrilled to take on this expanded position at the IA and amplify the irrigation industry’s priorities with decision-makers in Washington and around the country,” said Bowen. “I look forward to working with our members and stakeholders to tell our industry’s story about the value that irrigated agriculture and landscapes bring to our people and communities across the country and around the world.” For more information about the Irrigation Association, visit www.irrigation.org.