Episode 18: Legacy, Leadership & Collaborative Water Solutions with Tom Tebb

Episode 18
Legacy, Leadership & Collaborative Water Solutions with Tom Tebb

ABOUT THIS EPISODE

In much of the West, the era of permitting new water rights is behind us. The future depends on how we manage, move, and collaborate around the limited water resources that have been allocated.

Join Kristina Ribellia and Tom Tebb, one of Washington State's most highly regarded water professionals, for a candid conversation on the leadership and initiatives that are shaping the future of water in Washington and beyond.

Tom reflects on his career and contributions as the former Director of the Department of Ecology’s Office of Columbia River, the mindset and approaches that are making some of the region’s most ambitious water projects possible, and the principles that guide effective, long-term solutions.

Kristina and Tom discuss the evolution of water marketing in Washington, lessons learned from major initiatives like the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan and the Odessa Groundwater Replacement Program, and what recent drought conditions reveal about the urgency of collaborative, forward-looking water resource planning.

They also explore Tom’s new chapter as Principal of Tebb & Associates, where he continues to advise on water rights and water resource strategies, planning, and problem-solving.

At its core, this episode is about how trust, relationships, and steady leadership make lasting water solutions possible.

Tune in to Episode 18

ABOUT TOM TEBB

G. Thomas (Tom) Tebb, L.H.G., L.E.G.
Principal, Tebb & Associates –
Water Resource Consultants

Connect with Tom on LinkedIn | Email Tom

Tom Tebb is a licensed hydrogeologist and engineering geologist with over 40 years of experience in environmental and water resource management. A native of the Yakima Valley, Tom spent more than three decades with the Washington State Department of Ecology, where he held leadership roles across the Nuclear Waste, Shorelands, Water Quality, and Water Resources programs. His tenure culminated in his role as Director of the Office of Columbia River, where he led regional water planning efforts, including the Yakima Basin, Icicle Creek, and Walla Walla Integrated Plans. He was appointed by Governor Christine Gregoire to the Distinguished Managers Association and served eight years on the Washington State Geologist Licensing Board.

Throughout his career, Tom championed collaborative, ridge-to-valley approaches to water resource planning and policy. He played a key role in securing the Springwood Ranch near Ellensburg for fish habitat, public access, and salmon recovery—an acquisition later recognized by the Yakama Nation. Known for mentoring young professionals and fostering cross-sector partnerships, Tom’s legacy includes not only technical achievements but also a deep commitment to community, stewardship, and intergenerational knowledge-sharing.

In 2025, Tom was honored with the Outstanding Water Resource Professional Award by the Washington Section of the American Water Resources Association and the Columbia Basin Development League, recognizing his enduring contributions to sustainable water management in the Columbia Basin and beyond. Today, as Principal of Tebb & Associates, he continues to advise on water rights, regulatory strategy, and integrated planning, while remaining a trusted mentor and advocate for Washington’s water future.