This article was written by Communications Specialist Ally-Anna Outlaw. 

On January 22, I spent the day at the Reservoir Center for Water Solutions (R.C.) Partner Summit, a meeting that emphasized the value of collaboration across the water sector. The summit brought together partners from nonprofits, research institutions, policy organizations, and industry to reflect on progress and identify shared priorities. 

The afternoon opened with a State of the Reservoir Center update, highlighting the organization’s growth since opening its doors in 2022 and its role as a neutral space for connection in D.C. With more than 80 partners, the R.C. has become a hub for conversation across domestic and global water issues. 

Throughout the breakout sessions, that point came up multiple times. Participants consistently emphasized the importance of having a physical and intellectual home for the water community. From networking and partnership building to support, the R.C. fills a gap that would be impossible to replace. Conversations also pointed to opportunities for growth, particularly around communications, research visibility, and hybrid engagement for partners outside of DC. 

The partner presentations showcased work happening across all of the different organizations represented at the summit. Project WET and EarthEcho highlighted the role of youth as translators, advocates, and future leaders in water and environmental policy. PolicyLink centered equity and community driven solutions as essential to building a resilient water future. Engineers Without Borders, Stroud Water Research Center, the Water-AI Nexus Center of Excellence, and the Urban Land Institute offered concrete examples of how science, engineering, data, and land use intersect with water outcomes. This is just the surface of presenters highlighted throughout the afternoon at the Summit!  

One thing became clear by the end of the day. The problems facing water resources are complicated, but the connections made at places like the Reservoir Center make collaboration possible. I am so glad I was able to represent the Global Water Security Center, and I look forward to growing these partnerships as we move forward.