Closing Keynote: Lessons from a San Antonio Acequia: Understanding the past for future resource management

All of us have encountered a storm water issue that we can’t quite wrap our heads around, but sometimes the solution is found in the most unlikely place and despite our advanced engineering knowledge. Moving towards sustainable storm water solutions will require us to rely on established methods, innovative practices, and a willingness to look to the past for answers. The state of storm water in San Antonio and beyond will be explored through leveraging past, current, and future resources.

Presented by Nefi Garza, City of San Antonio Assistant Director of Transportation and Capital Improvements

Born and raised in San Antonio, Nefi Garza has worked for both public and private industries. He attended the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and earned a degree in Civil Engineering. Beginning his career with private engineering firms, Nefi learned hydrology and hydraulics from great mentors and became a licensed Professional Engineer. Nefi joined the San Antonio River Authority (SARA) in 2002, where he was involved with major projects such as the Bexar County Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map (DFIRM) update. After nine years at SARA, Nefi joined the City of San Antonio and spent three years with in the Department of Public Works. Nefi returned to the private sector in 2012 and worked there for over four years, establishing a successful hydrology and hydraulics practice. Nefi returned to the City of San Antonio’s Transportation and Capital Improvements Department in 2017, where he currently serves as Assistant Director over the Storm Water Division. Nefi, his wife Maria, and his son Samuel reside in San Antonio. They enjoy camping, hiking, and activities at church and are particularly proud of their family accomplishment of climbing the highest peak in Texas.